There's a big difference between what the airlines advertise as their minimum requirements and what they'll actually accept!

It's always been like that!

Never got so much as an email until I had the licence. Coincidence? Couldn't say.

True, no doubt the recruitment departments would most likely choose a pilot for assessment that already has an ATPL versus one that doesn't. However as time progresses the pool of candidates who hold an ATPL will dwindled which will lead to a shift of recruitment to pilots that hold a CPL.

Interesting point. Especially as Jetstar interviews for example, have no technical component - only HR (tell us about the time you disagreed with the captain, type of questions). Presumably it is accepted that if you hold a ATPL, then by definition the pilot has documented sound technical knowledge.

In contrast, an interview with another airline such as Cathay Pacific, includes strong emphasis on technical knowledge beyond that expected of an ATPL.