Parrot: To answer your questions:
1) Brisbane base on Q400 I would say is reasonable. Most of the applicants coming through at this stage are going directly onto the Q400 but it is based on where they need the resources. They are short everywhere and on all fleets at the moment. Fancy to live in NZ?? :-) It isn't confirmed basing until they give you the nod but they certainly try to accommodate where possible.
2) Command time: Yeah majority of FO's have an ATPL and more than enough hours for command too. Seniority based and looking at the list currently 250 odd pilots in Sunstate (Brisbane/Cairns/Adelaide). Difficult to predict with changes other than natural attrition but I would say anywhere between 4 and 7 years?? (Others may differ in their opinion).
3)Future progression is something the company is attempting to accomplish. There have been some that have gone to Jetconnect, Jetstar and now as you may be aware offering EOI applications for mainline.
Overall the flying is fun, good selection of ports, lifestyle at the moment is questionable due to the lack of crews, but is cyclical. Overnights about once a week. You mention home every night and progression in the same sentence. Mainline do overnights too ;-).
Anyway hope this helps. PM if you want anymore details.