And how about also considering the question, "Have pilots` conditions in Australia improved or declined since then?". Consider individual contracts, pilot salaries, and pilot representation with the employer, as starters.
I reckon the 250 kts below 10,000` is a definite DEGRADATION and has added untold extra cost to the owner/operators` fees because of the increased flight times - this of course flows on to training, aircraft hire, and pax ticket costs.