Has Australia changed from the 1980's? I would assume, yes, although I wouldn't bet a large sum on it.
Yes, but there has been pushback from what I see in recent years - especially against some groups. politics and news drives this.
I've been under the impression that you were able to stand up to your bullies physically.
Not really. I did get into a couple altercations, but mostly it wasn't physical. I was never a strong kid. There wsas definitely no fear of repercussion at the time though - luckily, I had no money :D
Too much desensitation can have the side effect of distorting one's sense of justice.
This works on both sides of the equation.