Dick, this is Australia mate. Transparency is the furtherest thing from the Australian government, ASA, CAsA or the ATSB's minds. The equivalent in other countries is a whole different ball game and certainly in the USA or NZ there is less smoke and mirrors.
You worked for CASA Dick so you should know how our industry's 'iron rings' work! Some of the same secret squirrels are still around. Don't be surprised if the company Russell works for pops into the equation!
If all else fails just give Staib a call, she might be able to clarify the process
