Already, Qantas has gained exemptions from CASA for its most popular domestic routes, being allowed to cut its crew on the Boeing 737-800 and Airbus A320 from five to just four.
At least that's one for each main door. Asian low costs operate A319s with three cabin crew, and I believe New Zealand allows three cabin crew on some 737s ?
Difficult decision which way to go:
Run a first rate airline charging high fares and delivering first rate service IF your market will support it.
OR
Join the low costs in the lower end of the market, reducing your costs and standard of product to compete.
It's all very well having a low pax/crew ratio, good meals and satisfied customers. But you won't be around long if you're flying half empty losing money because most of your potential passengers were put off by the price and decided to pack a cut lunch and go on Tiger instead.