Jerricho -
From what I have heard, this is also common practice in the US E radar airspace - contollers end up 'separating' IFR from VFR in E so they don't collide. Which, of course, is completely uncalled for in the rules of E airspace. Or, you could do what was required like up at Maroochy, and get called 'criminal' because you applied the rules correctly.
Damned if you do, damned if you don't......
Cheers,
NFR.