I'd say there are plenty of heli drivers jobs in Oz that pay better than the military. $100k, or close to, is expected for SAR specialists, and a few offshore drivers. Although the south pacific peso is plummeting daily, the cost of living is such that you can live extremely well on that, thank you.
Me, I operate 2 twins, 2 206's and 5 f/w, in Melbourne, Sydney & Brisbane. Filming, photography, traffic reports, fire fighting, snow ops during winter (40 landings/day at 6000 ft in a 117), sling loads, VIP and general charter. Keeps us busy!