to answer the original question, yes i am confirming that the time frame for reapplying is about 12 months from the date you were rejected. however you should contact cx 9 or 10 months after your last interview, to let them know you are interesting in reapplying. that way they can schedule you for another attempt at your last interview.
about AFTC, they are part of the same company that owns FTA, they share aircraft and resources like maintenance so any training done here will look good in your cx interviews. AFTC doesn't provide accomodation. you will need a student visa to train in Australia and then apply for a CASA student pilot's license (incl. medical etc) before you can fly solo. you can, however, start your dual flying and log this without an SPL or medical.
1 hour dual in a grob is approx $220-250AUD, and this includes some lectures and preflight briefings.
Another alternative is to go to Florida or California and do an intense PPL course over about 4-6 weeks.