I did my training at the school in Bankstown, so yes it was radio calls, accurate circuits, and arrival and departure procedures almost from day 1. They were very particular about training me to the GA Day VFR syllabus, as it is a higher standard, and would prepare me for transition to GA. Including tolerances. I am glad they did, as that is what I am now doing and I don't feel like i am on the back foot with having to learn all that stuff anew.
Just download the PPL application form from casa.gov.au, it will tell you what you need. Minimum hours aeronautical experience, minimum PIC, minimum XC and XC solo. Don't remember the numbers, but if you have your RAA + PAX and Nav, you should be close. I am well over. Also a couple of hours instruments. There are stipulations on the Nav trips as to distance and number of stops - check out CAR 5.84 Private pilot (aeroplane) licence: aeronautical experience required
(1)For the purposes of paragraph 5.77(1)(f), a person’s aeronautical experience must consist of at least 40 hours of flight time as a pilot, being flight time that includes:
(a) at least 5 hours of general flight time as pilot in command; and
(b) at least 5 hours of cross‑country flight time as pilot in command; and
© at least 2 hours of instrument flight time.
(2)The 40 hours must be recognised flight time that was flown in a registered aeroplane, recognised aeroplane, helicopter, gyroplane, glider, power‑assisted sailplane or group A ultralight.
(3)For the purposes of paragraph (1)(b), the flight time must include 1 flight of at least 150 miles, that includes at least 1 full stop landing at, and at least 1 take‑off from, each of 2 or more aerodromes:
(a) that are not the aerodrome from which the flight commenced; and
(b) that are not within the student pilot area limit of the aerodrome from which the flight commenced.
(4)For the purposes of subregulation (3), a landing is a full stop landing if, after landing, the aeroplane’s speed is reduced to taxi speed before take‑off begins.
You'll need to take the BAK to be allowed to sit the PPL(A) exam. Needs to be in your logbook so they can see it at the testing centre. You'll need a medical and possibly an ASIC. You'll need a radio operator's licence (quick exam) and an english proficiency thingo. There is no requirement to do the GFPT, you can go straight to work on the PPL if you have already passed that level by virtue of having your RAA cert + Nav and PAX.
I went thru the school in Bankstown along with 3 other blokes around the same time, and 2 of them have already gotten their PPL, as above. I will probably be number 3 out of the group.
Feel free to PM me if you would like to know any more, as I'm at the same point as you, or maybe one step ahead :)
adam