They go through the same training, the same ratings and qualifications and usually fly newer equipment.
I'd actually disagree.
The JQ arm of the Qantas Group:
a. Has a different recruitment standard approved by the board when they couldn't achieve the required level of recruitment numbers from 2004.
b. Requires lower flight hours for recruitment
c. Imposes environmental (crosswind limitations) limitations to FO's lower than that in the mainline operation
d. The training was outsourced and resulted in incidents where non sanctioned procedures where being flown. Recall the TOGA tap go around in Melbourne at minima in Fog.
e. The new equipment is provided by Qantas Group Treasury
f. A Command Training program at Qantas takes over six months. I am told the JQ Command training is substantially less.
g. I believe the QF recruitment process requires a Higher School Certificate, however Bruce Buchanan's (the former CEO of JQ) sprouted the line that "anyone can fly"
MC