To be honest, I echo Sonic Bams' sentiments.
However, if you do the HND/BSc (assuming you are at Perth or the like) follow up from your HNC, you can then get a 2 year permit (Fresh Talent, or something like it) on top of your student visa. (the overseas bit of the school should be able to advise you) Meanwhile, sit your Part 66 modules and then when you apply for jobs, you will have something to show towards getting the license.
Remember, Airside, Licenses count, not necessarily the acedemic qualification. You may find a higher acedemic qualification a hinderance without at least some Part 66 modules.(As SB said, 'Without being able to show competency on the tools there is no use having a brain the size of a planet - you have no value to a company')
Best of luck