Jetstar Fail
Despite reservations, I applied for the Advanced Cadet Programme. Rejected because 1)MECIR isn't current & 2) No ATPL subjects.
To qualify, my reservations are almost exactly what the last few posts have said about diluting the industry by allowing newbies straight into the RHS of a jet. However, I figured, 6 relatively expensive years later my career would be set.
Looks like I'm sticking it out in GA. Not too worried really, At least this way there will be a sense of satisfaction on receiving a yes letter 5 years down the track and the knowledge of having earned a RHS.
If it sounds too good to be true - it probably is. Good luck to those who get in, hope it goes well. Just a reminder - this is a CHOICE you are making. This is not the only way into the airlines or into a flying job. And if you can afford the debt associated with the ACP or Ab Initio programme then you can probably afford a CPL and go it your own way.