QUOTE When ADSB was first announced, didn't Airservices say that they were going to pay for the unit to be placed in the aircraft QUOTE
They certainly did. I and many others will remember "Tammany Hall" at the AOPA AGM at Murray Bridge. Again after the AOPA AGM at the Bankstown Trotting Club and in brochures. These and many other meetings included a talk on ADSB free installation.
Not being the type of person to say I told you all over and over it would never happen, I won't. (but I'd love to).