The issue for the MECIR for the military guys is about who gave you the test for the issue of the IR. An ATO must be tested and approved by CASA in order to be able to issue the rating. Because the RAAF QFI has not been approved by CASA, he cannot issue the civilian MECIR. Unless of course he is a reservist which was how I did my intitial civilian MECIR. I flew the aeroplane with the RAAF reservist from CASA in the jumpseat. He's approved to travel on the RAAF aircraft and he is approved by CASA with a 5.19, hence he is able to issue the MECIR.
Hey Arm Out The Window - you back flying choppers round the FNQ reefs and relaxing as a chilled out house hubby?