"So if you already have a degree you con't get government funding for any degree, diploma or certificate course - which sucks if you want to change careers."
Errr I think you're wrong there mate...UniSA provide the (almost) fully funded postgrad diploma in aviation ie. CPL + MECIR, covered by FEE HELP.
My cousin is currently doing this - average age is around 35 I believe, most of whom have never been in a cessna before!