Maybe not ATR
What I find odd is that experienced ATR drivers who are Aussies and living in OZ haven't been contacted for interviews. They may not be current but surely thats easier than sponsoring expats to work here?
We also have a bucket load of very experienced Dash 8 and Saab 340 crews here who could transition easily. A big Saab 340 operator here in OZ doesn't pay very well and people would jump ship quick smart for a better deal.
I have no problem with foreign crews coming to Oz to fill a skills gap but I can't see why they would be offering permanant contracts. One to two years would be ample time to train locals