I was able to book over the phone as a full J fare using AA flight number for the long haul segment (3x EQM gets me to EXP with no MR, so worth the additional cost).

Discounted business only available with the MEL-LAX leg, but I did not want to fly in the A380 again - that business class was not very comfortable and had no room to work. Hopefully their refurb program goes as planned next year.

I was changing a previously booked return MEL-SYD-LAX-MIA in I as I need to leave later than originally planned (I went through SYD originally to enjoy the QF lounge there for a few hours as well as avoid the A380, but the AA 72 SYD-LAX flight was full in J).

It is a cash ticket - no award.

Thanks everyone.

EDITED TO ADD: It was odd that the AAgent could only book me in 12F even though 12K was open. I asked for 12K and she said it wasn't open. As soon as I hung up, I went to the QF site and selected 12K.