If you want to get super clever about remuneration comparison, you take into account the superannuation. Believe it of not, the ADF super is not too bad.
Since I'm not super clever, I did not include it in my comparison. I worked out that a maxed out (10+ year) SQNLDR who is flying is worth about 135-145K. This includes housing benefits, health insurance and medical.
As for a 'retention benefit'.....If it's going to happen, I can't help but think it is too little, too late.
I also think that the RAAF can be grateful that there are some pilots out there who have not (at this time) got their ducks lined up to have their ATPL sorted....