Thanks AK,
Up and coming helicopter pilots in Europe are probably reading this thread with a sense of security. Foreign ATPL holder's contemplating working in the EU are given very few concessions, while an EASA ATPL can attract generous concessions in countries like Australia.
I'm looking at the investment in time and money required to get an EASA licence as just another stage of my career as a pilot. I'm yet to crunch the numbers to see if it is worth it, and I'll post the results when I get the chance.
This thread has prepared me for the slice of humble pie that the ATO has waiting for me though. I'll look for professional recognition of my training and experience when engaging EU employers, not the training organisations.
H-D