Thanks everyone for all the answers so far. ^

@number_6 : The J fare on the nonstop was twice that of the connection via PER on my date. Not a MR, and would definitely have prefered the nonstop.

I had no idea the transit at PER was this complicated! Would QF thru check baggage at MEL all the way or should I ask them to short check to PER and then reclaim and carry bags to the international airport terminal myself?

Thanks!