G'day gooner,
When you say you're working towards a basic AME license, do you mean a non-type rated license? Or what would have been called a lower group license in the CAR 30 world?
Or are you referring to a B1 or B2 license on a type rated aircraft?
Ultimately, as you're obviously well aware, the best way to complete a JoE is to get yourself into a heavy or base maintenance facility. Maybe give BAE Systems a call, as I believe they may be taking over Tiger's line and base maintenance in Sydney, as they just did in Melbourne.
Talk to your Part 147 approved MTO, which in your case would probably be Padstow TAFE about your difficulties getting entries in your OJT. They may be able to give you some insight into how Parts 66 and 147 work regarding OJT, PCT, POC, etc. That'll hopefully give you some ideas on how to keep moving forward and get closer to getting licensed.
On a side note: have you completed your diploma yet?
Cheers,
John