Originally Posted by
SeriouslyLost
...
deplane
immigration
customs
turn right out of the terminal
walk for ~5 min (no wasting time for an unnecessary shuttle)
drop bags via kiosks inside at AA
clear security
...
This only if on separate (non oneworld) bookings or for some reason the bags are not through-checked.
The OP's bags should be through checked (as per QF's oneworld policy) in wich case there's no need to lug bags between terminals.
i.e.
...
deplane
immigration
customs
drop bags at transfer point before exiting TBIT
turn right out of the terminal (head upstairs at TBIT and walk along the arrivals level)
walk for ~5 min (no wasting time for an unnecessary shuttle)
clear security
...