1. I would like a program that will comp my AS Status.
-- you'll have to shop around to see who will. UA should, AC might, LH will not.
2. I want to get status bonus miles on all my Star flights (not just on UA flights with the Mileage Plus Program)
- AC or LH will allow that, so will NZ
3. I need for the 50K to maintain *G status.
only 35K with AC PLUS it gives you access to all Red Carpet Clubs in US. *G on UA will NOT give RCC access-you have to pay.
4. I'd like to use rewards for US-Australia travel (where UA offers a generously low 60K award compared to AC 75K Award).
- don't let that fool you. With double bonus miles on all Star Carriers with AC you can earn more miles so requiring more miles is not that big a deal(well sort of double--they use a threshold bonus scheme that benefits more the people earning close to 100k miles per year; at 50K you only get 15k bonus miles).
5. Some change of international upgrades would be nice.
- if you get to SuperElite on AC, you will get a nice set of 8 upgrades that can be used internationally on typical fares, but not seat sale or websaver.

Any advice - I have seen somewhere (but can't confirm on their site) that Air Canada gives you status bonus and threshold miles on all Star flights.
- it's true

Check out the comparison chart:



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BlondeBomber's Star Alliance Gold Comparison Chart 2001
Dorian's Star Alliance RTW Price Chart