PPRuNe Forums - What can I do with a CoV while converting my EASA license to a CASA license?

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What can I do with a CoV while converting my EASA license to a CASA license?

Hi there guys.

I'm a Portuguese ATPL student about to get my license (in Portugal) and the time has come to start looking for employment options.
I've lived in Australia for 2 years and would love to give it another try. I'm aware of what it is involved in the conversion process (a couple of exams and a lot of AUS$ ready to be spent) as I've been reading a lot of threads on the topic. Some of them are really useful but I can't seem to find a fellow pilot who has recently completed the process and decided to leave a honest feedback about it.
My question is, what can a foreign pilot with an EASA license realistically do (in terms of finding a job) with a CoV (certificate of validation)?
I've checked the CoV application form and it states that I need to justify the reason why I'm applying to the CoV (studying, ferrying, commercial ops, recreational flights...) and for how long (up to 12 months according to CASA).
So, if you guys have some info about this or have been through the same process, please let me know.
Cheers

I suspect that unless you hold an Australian CPL or ATPL no Australian GA or Airline would or could offer you pilot employment?

Holding a Certificate of Validation would not meet the AOC holder's primary requirement of an Australian resident with right to work in Australia, holding the required level Australian Pilot License?

I assume you also have the right to work in Australia?

Usually, for commercial operations, a CofV is facilitated by the operator, who will provide CASA with a reason for the application. For example, when a new type is introduced and there is a need for some temporary imported expertise.
Not applicable in your case, so a doubtful way to go. Seems you will have go down the full conversion route before being employable, but meantime there would be no harm in casting around to see if anyone would at least interview you.

When I went through the conversion process 10 years ago the CoV entitled me to do nothing except sit the IR flight test. I doubt any employer would give you work with just a CoV.

That's what I thought. Unfortunately, my current situation as a candidate to any pilot position, isn't very appealing to the employers.
Maybe a way to go is to start preparing myself to the conversion process where I am right now and move to Australia to do the exams as they can only be done in Australian territory.
Maybe I'll use the CoV as a "recreational license" to rent a plane to keep all my skills up to date. That is probably the only possible scenario I can think of.
And what about the conversion process itself? Is there any fellow pilot who recently took that path and what to share the experience?