You are getting the run around, because "Compliance Issues When Moving Overseas" are very complex, as each person's situation differs so much, and interpretations can vary so much!
Are you an Aussie Citizen? Will you still come back from time-to-time? Will you someday return?
I mean, even you dont know what you are going to be doing!!! "Maybe 1 year or indefinitely" you say .... To me there is a hell of a difference between "one year" ....... and "indefinitely" ... based on this ALONE, the interpretation of the code of compliance varies hugely! It seems almost impossible to give you a ruling if you dont even know where you will be next year! Any wonder you cant get an answer!
Having said the above, I was in a similar situation to you back in the '90's. We went overseas to do volunteer work for an undetermined period. I also battled to determine my status, but worked out a solution with my accountant.
Best suggestion I can give you is to go find a good one!
