I have heard that at least one group were given a ‘temporary’ Sydney base for the duration of their ground/sim training. The idea behind this was that the company didn’t have to provide them accommodation in Sydney during ground school as per the EBA. Once they were ready for line training they were then awarded a permanent base either somewhere else in the network, or in Sydney if they so desired. As far as I’m aware they were still entitled to flights between Sydney/Melbourne and accommodation whilst in Melbourne (as anyone permanently based in Sydney is).
Last I heard was that the Rex PC were disputing the legality/ethics of this. Still not sure what the outcome was or how many people it affected (I’m no longer at Rex). I would have certainly preferred that the resources of the union were directed towards matters like this rather than individuals arguing the legality of bailing early on signed bond agreements.