500N,
I thought Spaz posted a quote saying that 'the deck strength is there'.
If it helps, I can confirm that the Spanish design target was to have the deck strength (and elevator capacity) to handle the F-35B.
Money and logistics - as ever, it depends what you want to do from what bases against what scenario. The Aussies have a massive potential operational area, with Host Nation Support (land bases) fairly thinly spread, as are their own land bases. They also have nations around them building aircraft carrier capacity.
Finally, the F-35B is designed to operate from small decks. The logs support system is designed to work from small ships as well. It's straightforward to operate from small ships.
OK, I'm a naval aviation type. But from where I look at it, it doesn't look such a far fetched idea.
Oh, and the Aussie ships already have a ski jump.
Best Regards as ever
Engines