Umm first off..where in the US are you by chance? Just wondering if you're used to heat..?
Righty-o..I'll try and answer a few q's..
1-NOt sure about the visa process but if your hubby has a job offer from a company they'll work out the paperwork etc. You may end up on the 457 visa but i'm not 500% sure. You can check out http://www.immi.gov.au & you can always contact the Australian Consulate in Washington
2-Economy-Well, Western Australia & Queensland are doing well due to the Mining & resources boom.. you can always check out www.theaustralian.com.au (national newspaper) & the business section. For jobs try www.seek.com.au
houses www.realestate.com.au
3-Attitude towards americans-umm..might i suggest contacting one of the American Clubs in Australia for that one...Being Canadian we're pretty much liked here but not sure about how that applies for Americans.. As long as you adapt to the Aussie lifestyle & get to know the sports etc you'll do just fine.
4-Umm you might not want to move here because of the heat or crazy creatures? Can you handle 45C?
Ahhhh..last but not least..Mountain Biking..Ahhhhh...Well, this all depends on where you live. Out East, you'll have your fair share & be able to attend some awesome events. Out west, well there are some great tracks but most are illegal.
Melbourne has interesting weather, great shopping, good hills, good mountain biking (home of the 06 Commonwealth games XC course), good greek restuarants
Brisvegas-Close to great beaches & cycling
I don't know about housing prices over east but i can ask our kiwi friends that just moved to Sydney about thier experience. Renting a house will be expensive if you come west...
I don't know if i've answered your qu's