Back to Ramjet's original post (which was great BTW), you say your experience was RAAus PC to PPL.
How different (easier?) is the first step to RPL? Given you still have to do the study and learn the rules and master the difference in the aircraft (assuming you train in a Cessna or similar rather than something like a VH registered Jab), I'm wondering whether getting the RPL is really any easier....
Also - if I understand another post correctly, it is possible to get the RPL license purely based on desk work and passing exams and medicals etc and then do the "check ride" later. Really?
Cheers
Barry