The shortage is biting not only here but also in Australia and Europe, so obviously there are other factors driving this.
There is no pilot shortage in Australia.
I'm not sure which source you are using but it is patently incorrect.
Vacant pilot positions at all levels in the Australian industry from GA through to Airlines are oversubscribed with many qualified yet disappointed, unsuccessful applicants.
As for the States (where I once worked)...I agree with previous posts. There is a shortage of wannabe monkeys willing to work for the peanuts offered by the Part 91 and 135 worlds.
The only real pilot shortage is for type-rated, direct entry Captains willing to work in the fast growing developing world (i.e. Asia...especially China)