Originally Posted by
Nibbles2310
1 - No requirement to build the hours in any particular aircraft with specific design features, just that it is a recognised or registered aeroplane. I.e Some of it can be RAAus, the rest VH registered even if it's in an experimental such as an RV.
Multi IFR - you can do this before your CPL and the hours will count to the minimum required. I'd suggest you find somewhere that will do most of the CIR training in a single and then the last few hours and test in a twin, again saving money. Or better yet, get a SECIR and an initial twin endorsement then when the time comes do the upgrade, it'll be cheaper to keep current while you're kicking around VFR.
2 - Pay for it as you go, it's hard work and it hurts the bank account when you go on a long dual nav but overall it's significantly cheaper and you can pick a school where you're not being taught by a new grade 3 who's just there to get the hours to get into an airline. Then go and do a theory course such as the one offered by Bob Tait if that's your thing.
I'd ask whether the older TAFE tutors you mention are out of touch with the industry or whether they have practical experience and are telling it how it is rather than the glossy marketing brochures produced by the sausage factory VET FEE-Help schools.
Thank you for the information, so what I believe is you could hire a plane maybe at best mates rate (VH registered I would use) then get a Grade 3 or 2 instructor and complete the required training, hour build and then pay for an approved testing instructor for the CPL flight test, once all exams and prac flying are complete?. I have already passed one of the CPL subjects studying myself at home using bob taits, so I am thinking I could keep my job, not run up a huge HECS bill and like you said do it as you go. Schools want 65-75k for PPL-CPL that only includes at the end a 182 or 206 endorsement, still VFR single. why would I pay that crazy amount.