Inconsistencies in cross-border reffing

[Jurassic Referee]

I've noticed the same thing between neighboring associations, let alone wider geographical areas.

As long as the officials in each area are consistent in the way that they call contact, coaches don't have any reason at all to whine. Imo, most of the coaches make statements like the one you quoted at the bottom of your post to actually say that they want more fouls called on their opponents, not their team.