I think we have all heard enough about AWA & there problems. To answer the original question about schools in Australia.
AWA aren't the only school at the Gold coast. I converted an oversea's PPL to an Australian licence at Air GoldCoast. They dont have the flashy hangar & brand new planes that AWA do but i got what i paid for. After every flight I was invoiced & it was itemised with cost of A/C , cost of instructor, landing fee,s & airways charges. No hidden extra's or charges & a small well run & friendly admin department.
The instructors were young & might have been waiting for that elusive twin or jet job to pop up but they new there stuff & were helpful & friendly.
They use C172s which are oldish but they have a maintanance facility in the hangar next door to the school so the A/C are kept in good condition.
South East Queenslands weather is very predictable , hot, humid & afternoon storms during summer & perfect clear flying weather during winter so if you plan it right you dont loose many days due weather.
I only flew about 8 hrs at Air Gold Coast but was happy with the service & they haven't had a bashing on pprune like AWA.
139BOY.