Depends on what you want to do.
If you don't mind shifting around (and UK to Oz isn't a small step) then you'll be ok with tootling off to the Kimberley et al to look for flying work. No way did I fly for free. You'll find most scrupulous operators will not tolerate that any way.
Experienced pilots are becoming harder to find in Oz. If you're willing to do a season or two out in the Kimberley/Territory then move back to Darwin/Cairns or to Sydney for a bank run job then you're looking good. Bank running combined with some turbine time is gold.
Do some time with Rex or Qantaslink and see how you go with Jetstar or Cathay or Dragonair.
The asian market (in particular the Chinese) market is expanding at a reasonable rate. Once you have decent jet time under your belt, then think about converting back to JAR or wait till 2006 and there's supposed to be a change with the FAA and CAA. (Note, JAA will become EASA soon)