The pre-course study material will not assist you in any way for the recruitment testing, but it's basically the BAK line of books from the Aviation Theory Centre, more towards pilot training then air-traffic control.
As for the time frame of course training, it can be anywhere from 12 months up to 18 months (and in some cases more) all depending on the number instructors available and sim place. All initial training is conducted at the Melbourne College, with final field training taking place at your "final" location.
Good luck with your testing