Rocker
Either your instructor gave you bogus information or you haven't read the regs.
1. You do not need a night VFR rating to fly in Aus. You obviously need it to fly at night.
2. To gain an Aus command helicopter instrument rating, you must complete the IREX theory examination and complete 40 hours of instrument dual instruction. 20 of these hours may be completed in an approved simulator. The other 20 hours must be done in a helicopter (does not have to be an instrument rated aircraft). I did all mine in an R22. The flight test must be done in a IFR certified aircraft with an ATO (Authorised Testing Officer) or CASA inspector.
If you hold a FAA helicopter instrument rating and meet the flight requirements (ie. 40 hours dual instrument instruction), you will need to pass the IREX theory exam and then go for a flight test.
Basically in Australia, a RATING requires a flight test (ie. night VFR, instrument, instructor, etc)
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has a pretty good explanation of what is required. Look at the link below:
http://www.casa.gov.au/fcl/overbr.htm
It's all on the website. Good luck!
