Agree not many actually start in Darwin but a Darwin operators out posts (hiring is done from Darwin generally).
1,000 hrs if you appear to have a non fit in character, 250 hrs if good back ground and attitude is enough in cases (depend insurance).
Expect singles for a start job - twins maybe a long way off - but not always.
Yes many folded companies, but same still applies - if you get on well with others working in the Darwin aviation industry, they influence who gets jobs (they talk).
Many like wet season flying experience - second best is proof of just living through a build up and a wet.