How much do you value your FF points?
I would recommend using them for INTL upgrades, but if you have no status with QF then your upgrade request is pushed right to the bottom of the queue (CL, WP, SG, PS, NB). Plus QF will not confirm the success or lack of upgrade requests until 24 hours - 5 hours prior to departure.

Fares MEL-SYD-EZE are around $1800 (these are sale fares - not upgradable).
If you book a red-e-deal (which can be upgraded using points) its $2080 (for travel in may).
So for $300 it looks like:
- Use your points and pay the taxes ($388) flying economy
- Pay a red-e-deal and request points upgrade. If not awarded you lose $300-$400 in paid fare difference (which you would have paid in taxes had you used points)
- Buy a sale fare and fly in Y. Spend $1800 and keep your points.


David.