Forget exchange rates, get that right out of your head.
Forgive me, but thats pretty much all your last post discussed.
Not disagreeing with the thrust of what you are trying to get across but remember when guys bandy about the phrase
Market rates for an equivalent pilot
it is by definition where supply does infact meet demand. "Market rates" is not equal to the highest paid or even necessarily what you and I would like to be paid.
If Jetstar does find enough pilots at the pay it offers, by definition they must be close to "market rates". Supply will have satisfied demand.
I agree, its sh1t but ultimately, if you as an individual doesnt like it, dont work there. Im not living in SYD on A$65k and I dont know anyone who would.
Regarding the costs of living comparisons between NZ and Aussie, and SYD in particular, I'm with Framer. You and I will just have to agree to disagree.
Cheers
W9