I have a different take; since I don't have credit cards, I can't buy anything. That didn't stop me from downloading 123 CD's of Poser (and other program) freebies. Start with those, and you'll save tons. Go to DAZ 3d's freebies, Sixus1 (Poser Freebies), Studio Maya, etc., and you'll have all the stuff you need to get started, without spending a cent..
Don't know about Brisbane, I've never been closer than Kwajalein, Marshall Islands..;)

I wish I'd said that.. The Staircase Wit

anahl nathrak uth vas betude doth yel dyenvey..;)