I've been looking for LAX-MEL availability for next February, and all I'm able to find is on FJ in Y--no QF in sight. It's probably for two reasons: it's the peak season for Australia and awards go quickly, and we get later access to them than other programs due to AS's 331-day window. I'm going to hold out for a while and see if anything opens up in Y+ or J, but I'll most likely end up just buying a Y ticket.
For what it's worth, I had no trouble grabbing a MEL-HKG-YVR award on CX for the trip home. It'll definitely cost you more time and miles, though (although only 10k round-trip for J).
Trying to fly Seattle to Sydney and back sometime next February, March or April 2017. Also wanting to tack on a trip to New Zealand if I can.
I've seen some award space on QF for this April, but I don't know if it's just because it's a lower-demand season of it they've opened more space up as departure days get closer.