ok i have around 600 aus to spend on a complete setup, im getting instructor lessons so im not going to risk the solo early on. i dont know which to get out of electric or gas/nitro, which would be better to start with even with the instructor training? and which model stands out for a complete newb.....

koolkiddd,
I started out on a GWS slowstick and have just bought a GWS E-Starter, which is way easier to fly then the slow stick. I would recommend it because it is a real stable flier and is still very fun. I'm not sure how much 600 aus is, but I think you can get this plane with everything you need for that price or under. Good luck and have fun with whatever plane you get!
MX57

koolkidd ;; Lots of us learned on thier own, But have'in a bub to help is the best way, A Slow stick is my choice but dosn't have the curb appeal of a pico tiger moth, or a scale type, Don't be putoff buy the looks,All planes that fly well are the apple of my eyes, do LOTS of researce, your bub, scoooper

I know that not all manufacturers/retailers ship to all parts of the world, so do you have any idea what planes are available to you? As a starting point, what does your instructor recommend? Do you have a local hobby shop and if so, what do they stock and what do they recommend?

HobbyZone Super Cub - superb trainer and available in Australia - my review here:

[link=http://www.ampaviators.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=25&Itemi d=28]HZ SC Review[/link]

Many have learned on this and it is one of the best trainers.

G'day koolkid, i myself am also from australia and i am just leanring my self i have goten very good at flying my first plane. i got a jpmodels electrafun xp. it is a great flyer, extremely stable and it does fly fairly fast. it comes completely rtf (except Tx batteries 'aa'), it also comes with one spare wing, 1 complet tail assembly and two battery packs. i know have just under 90 flights on it and am extremly comfortable flying WOT or very slow. it can loop, barrel rool stall turn wingover most of your basic r/e/t maneuvers. i thouroughly recomend this plane and if you decide to get it i hope you have as much fun as i have.\
regards,
dave

i forgot to mention that it is a pod and boom parkflying similar to aerobirts but with a t tail instead of v tal.
regards,
dave