Thanks for the great info Heliringer and Unhinged. All very useful information. In fact I had not heard about the ASIC, so finding out about that and getting the application form was good to have.
I will wait until I receive the ARN before having the medical examiner submit my Australian medical paperwork. I don't think he was aware of having to have an ARN number for the medical either.
lelebebbel your methodical steps to acquiring the license are very useful and helpful to myself, and I imagine, also to those who might consider this route as well.
I can see having all the material will prove to be useful, and in the greater scheme of things, always good to have it, than rushing to get it later.
lelebebbel, any info you have on advice for flying schools would always be appreciated.
Thanks to all, for helping clarify a lot of details for me. Gonna go ahead and register and order the supplies from AFT this week. So here's hoping it will all work out.