It's interesting to compare what was proposed in the Flight Crew Licencing Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) and what we have now. The entire dedacle was all in the interests of ICAO harmonisation to allow Australia to "export" pilot training!
Here's a link to the RIS:
https://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/F2...9-358947eec395
Here's a quote from the RIS concerning the effect on ATPLs:
"The multi-crew flight test will have a duration of approximately 2 hours and can be performed in a suitable aircraft or flight simulator. Based on 580 pilots undertaking the test per year the annual industry cost will be $0.9m"
I have asked CASA directly how many ATPLs have been issued in the first year of Part 61, but they won't respond. I understand following discussions with one of the few ATPL approved Flight Examiners that there have been 3 ATPLs issued. Also interesting to note the flight test was intended for the multi-crew qualification and not the stand alone 5 hour ATPL flight test extravaganza the industry has been saddled with.
It's also interesting to review ICAO Annex 1 to see what true harmonisation would have allowed the industry to do. eg: Unless you are delivering an integrated PPL/CPL course or multi-crew training a person holding a flight instructor rating can operate independently and does not require a Part 141 certificate. (Like the FAA)