Just a data point: I was (rudely) denied access to the SilverKris lounge at BNE because I didn't have a VA card. Well, yeah, I'm a partner platinum, and I did have my Delta DM card to prove it, but they were determined to not let me in. Was flying SYD-BNE-LAX in PS.

Not sure what your options are if you're travelling through Brisbane before the new VA lounge finally opens.