Since you guys have de-railed this thread, I thought I'd join in.
What is this "lifestyle" that I hear so much about? Whenever I go back, I find that oz is a beautiful place, but I would have trouble describing anyone I know as having a fab lifestyle (especially ATCs). What I see are people enslaved to massive mortgages, ATCs who work a lot, many people whose main social activity is watching TV (often due to financial constraints). It was pointed out to me by a visitor as well; she was very impressed with the country and all it has to offer, but was amazed that few seemed to be taking advantage of that- until I explained housing costs to her. ATCs might not be that short of a quid, but their opportunity to enjoy it is certainly limited. The lifestyle is a myth.
Anyway- get the license, then, at least, you have choices.