Think the thruth is somewhere in between. You might have been able to stay under the radar but I know all of us know someone who hasn't. The above mentioned European airlines have strong unions so their employees are protected. Fear culture doesn't work there. A few euro's less...thats's true.
Btw, there are some normal Aussies
. But they for sure don't pursue a career in training. However, a pretty little star would be nice. Halas.