Well yes they are. What about someone in their late 30's at the bottom of huge seniority list realising they will be late 50's before they have the opportunity for a command. They want to go overseas so at least they will see a command, where are they going with an Australian CPL? If you don't have a US or EU work Visa you are limited to Asia or the Middle East, all of which require ATPL.
The thing in Europe is that it doesn't take forever to get a command. The likes of RyanAir and easyjet don't have 20 years to a command
Neville,
Like many others around here are saying. Australia was unique in the way we never had an ATPL flight test until September. If someone wanted to go overseas to progress their career, ATPL subjects will suffice. The hardest part of what you suggest will be a) right to live and work in respective country b) licence conversion to JAA/EASA.
A quick Google looking at recently advertised jobs in EU shows me this;
B737NG FO Ryanair
Have the right to work in EU. (Valid EU / EEA Passport with the unrestricted right to live and work in the EU)
Not over 65
Valid EASA Part FCL, JAR FCL or National Licence compliant with ICAO standards (Will require IAA validation, some national licences will not be accepted by the IAA).
Must hold a valid Class 1 medical.
Minimum 1200 hours total flying time
Minimum of 1000 hours on airplanes of more than 5700 kg (12500 pounds) maximum certificated take-off weight.
Minimum 800 hours on the B737-300 to 900 series
Applicant must have the B737 300-900 type rating listed on the Licence.
For JAA & EASA licence holders the application must be made within 36 months of the most recent B737 300-900 “Valid Until” date specified in Section XII “Certificate of Revalidation”.
English Language Proficiency Rating of 4, 5 or 6. (Written proficiency at Operator level).
B737NG FO's in Germany
EASA/JAR Frozen ATPL license with IR and ME rating
Class 1 medical certificate
MCC certificate
Minimum 21 year of age when applying
Good knowledge of English (ICAO ELP4) and German mandatory, Turkish desirable
Unlimited Passport, Legal work in Europe
Holding a Type Rating on Boeing 737-800/900 is an advantage but not a requirement
Neither of these jobs requiring the full ATPL.