Hey CEOICAO,
Just thought I'd share my opinion with you...
1. I believe you meet the basic requirement. Flight experience is NOT a requirement (although it does help), and I know students who get in right after high school.
2. Yes, it is 60 weeks in Australia....but the cadets don't get a PPL at all....they continue training directly for the CPL
3. Financial support will help, but CX covers the main expenses of accommodation, food, training, books...etc etc. There is no "bond" or training cost to you, but the contract states 6 years of service with Cathay Pacific after the Cadet Program.
4. Program is open year round. They send multiple groups down throughout the year.
Hope this helps!