Hi ratc2009,
The ATC center is on Airport Drive, on the left, just before the last roundabout before the domestic terminal. Under the tower
The only public transport that goes out to the airport is the Airtrain, I believe, check out
TransLink - your one stop for public transport information for prices and season tickets or something?
Some nice suburbs around that area would be in the Shorncliffe area, on the water, older style houses, but good value especially if you look around.
Real Estate, Property, Land and Homes for Sale, lease and rent - realestate.com.au would be your best bet to check that out.
Sorry I couldn't be much help, but something is better than nothing!
Good luck!