I can't imagine any qualified foreign pilots coming to a US regional for 20 bucks an hour. For all but the PTF types, it is a pay cut. I do see lots of foreign pilots wanting to work at a major US carrier, starting at 50-60 dollars an hour, and getting on a seniority list of a major airline.
I think the solution that is coming, is the US majors will bring a lot of the RJ flying in-house. Then, and only then, will they be able to attract qualified pilots from around the world.
I think this is coming. All of the majors are hiring far more than they need for the replacement of retirements. I can't think of any reason they are doing this, other than bringing more regional flying in house.
Converting to an FAA license is usually much easier than converting FROM an FAA license, at least for Europeans. Aussies, I don't know.