I don't work in the industry (as yet) but i am very keen to do so.
I know that QF have apprenticeships on offer each year. If you get thier number of thier webiste, and give them a call, they will send an information pack to you when they are enxt recruiting. It should contain all the answers to your questions.
I terms of pay, again i am unawares of the actual numbers, but i know in Singapore, SQ are offering a package for LAMEs of around $110,000.00/per year. This inlcudes a place to live in Singapore as well as other entitlements. It was advertised in last Firdays' Australian
Might just give you some idea.