Australian pilots can work for US regionals.
In a conversation today with a recruiter from Skywest (USA, not oz), he mentioned that they are now sponsoring Australian pilots to obtain work visas.
I think a basic ATPL is all that is required.
I am out of touch with the oz scene and this may be common knowledge to you folk down under but I thought it was interesting.
I suspect some of the other regionals probably sponsor as well and some are upgrading in less than 12 months.
Something to consider for a young guy or gal looking for something different.
cheers