Cent,
I was told a similar thing when I was job hunting although it was more "It will increase your chances greatly if you were to set up in town."
It's a case of supply and demand. Why would an operator call a guy for an interview who has passed through and is now in Darwin when there are 30+ guys living in town with similar experience. As I'm sure you know most GA companies don't plan staff levels well and need the new pilot yesterday.