Yes, I've read the Qantas carry-on baggage policy thoroughly.

To rephrase my question: does Qantas enforce their personal item policy strictly on international segments?

"In addition to your carry-on baggage allowance, you may also carry on board one small personal item such as a handbag, laptop computer*, overcoat, small camera, a reasonable amount of reading material or a small amount of duty free goods (where permitted). * For a laptop computer to be considered a personal item it must be carried in a slim bag. Laptops carried in large laptop bags will be counted as part of your carry-on baggage allowance."