Yes, the basic kit strings are known to be very poor, with low output and an uneven response from string to string. The kits would be better without them IMO, but then they wouldn’t be ‘complete’ kits.

Might be worth trying out a set of Artist Guitar strings (mentioned in another current thread for guitar strings) as they are considerably cheaper than D’Addarios but seem to be on a par for quality and feel. I can get a set in the UK for £6 including postage compared to £20 and upwards for basic Rotosounds. Looks like they are AU$15 including postage for you. Worth a try? If you can cope with the kit strings, then the Artists should be a definite upgrade.