T-Bird,
I've been told it's better to get your ME+IR before you come in. It'll cost you more than AUD10k over here, with Deraya (I think it's the only one that does ME+IR apart from Curug).
As to the pay, the rates have gone haywire, some are double that amount I stated. It all depends on when and how you got the deal. But when looking at it, your living standards will be comparable to the average line pilot anywhere... Just on a lower cost living basis.
bars and ranks? Hours/Experience and endorsements (ATPL)...
One "good" thing is, you can go to a command rating quickly (except Garuda).
It really does depend on what you want and your plans...
PK-KAR