Thanks for the responses however in my initial post i didnt outline my postion very well. I've sent away an application for ADFA for the degree you mentioned, John however if iam unsucessful in that i was intending on doing the Aerospace engineering as my back up plan and was wondering how to become a test pilot using the civil route, as i know how competitive the ADF is to get into. As far as ADFA goes i dont think it would be less of a culture shock as i have been in the AAFC (Australian Air Force Cadets) for the past 4 years, where i've learnt to fly gliders and am learning to fly powered.
Ghengis, your response was very informative especially about the more specific aspects of the daily job. Some more information on how to become a test pilot in the civillian world would also be greatly appreciated.
The reason i ask questions about being a test pilot is my dad has told me from an early age the best way in life is to find a career you really enjoy rather than looking forward to retirement your whole life and I've always loved airplanes and from what i've read it seems like it would be just that.