how many ATCs have been sacked?
Dick, the question is provocative because AsA is almost certainly understaffed at the operational level while being dramatically overstaffed in the airconditioned offices of Canberra.
But the sentiment is 100% correct. If there is not a cost saving that can be measured and passed on to the users, there is no impulsion to mandate ADS-B other than generating overseas trips for management.
I think the question is sharper for me than you. In the Flight levels you will ultimately get the benefit of better traffic awareness and reduced separation. But at 6,000 ft OCTA I will get none of this benefit because I mix with non ADS-B VFR aircraft and non transponder RA(Aus) and glider traffic. So, why must I spend what might be $25,000 to upgrade. I can see absolutely zero safety or efficiency benefit. I will simply be spending nearly half the median Australian income for the benefit of AsA.