Moving to Melbourne in January to take up an academic job. Unless something goes wrong the move is permanent.

Plans for 2013 include YVR-SAN return, YVR-MEL one way, MEL-YYC return, MEL-YYZ return, MEL-YUL return, and probably MEL==>US==>Europe==>TLV==>PEK==>MEL. Finally, perhaps 8 domestic flights in Australia (mostly short), All flights in economy, most or all in discounted economy. I can choose whichever airlines I want, but am limited to economy.

Priorities: lounge access, upgrades to business, being able to get exit seats when flying economy, priority in going through security

Would very much appreciate advice. Should I go for AA or QFF? Any point/chance to try and obtain status in *A? Any particular credit card that is worth getting after I move to Australia?