[MENTION=305988]CASAFlyer[/MENTION]
QF program is still 'easy' in premium cabins if you fly on QF/QF codeshares. Since Simply fairer they have essentially halved the partner earn on competitive routes (and reduced the earn on AA Dom First flights)

Eg a MEL-LHR/Europe J-class return will earn 560-620 SCs on QF / QF codeshare on EK,
Versus 280 SC on QR.
(So 2 J Europe returns plus a modicum of domestic will get you Emerald)

In Y it's a bit harder at 140-190 (excluding Flex Y) QF/EK versus 70 on QR.

Using points on upgrades us the best value, but a lottery internationally, on domestic you can get it immediately, but general redemptions have large fuel fine copays.

Also note that QR has very recently altered it's charts in a bad way.
https://www.ausbt.com.au/qatar-airways-hikes-privilege-club-award-rates-booking-fees