Andy P, good points mate. Certain convictions that are old can be classified as being spent. One of the conditions on that system though is that you could not have been sentenced to imprisonment more than 30 months. There was also the ability for the secretary to issue a discretionary ASIC to persons who have an adverse criminal history. The Feds are not concerned with people who have screwed up in the past and can demonstrate they are unlikely to commit further offences.
We are getting away from the issue here though. There are moves afoot that, if approved, will make the ASIC application and renewal process more onerous. So my question is WHO is going to represent you? Airlines, Airports, unions etc are involved in the consultation process already.