Thank you so much, everybody, for your detailed responses. They've given me a much clearer picture of the JLPT tests and what they can and can't do for me, accreditation-wise.
I'm hoping that, being an Australian, having ikkyu will be somewhat of an asset along with a university degree. Can anybody provide me with some links on this forum to discussions about living as a student in Japan and finding suitable work? I'll have a browse myself, certainly.
Also, what of the double-jointed thumb and perfect fridge pitch qualities?? Does anybody else find them to be as good a marketing idea as I do?
Thank you again, everyone.