Don't forget that the seasons are reversed in the southern hemisphere, so if by "next summer" you mean July 2005 that would be mid-winter in Australia. Dress accordingly (depending on where you are, it could be from snow to semi-tropical -- it is a big country). Presumably you aren't staying in a hotel, in which case the seasonal price variation doesn't matter. Food, transportation and even tourist attractions cost the same year round, it is only hotels that can double in price during the peak season. Perhaps you can look at http://www.frommers.com and get some background info. As for flying there, you'll find that United offers consolidator tickets cheaper than anyone else (but they may not earn FF miles, it depends on the fare but the cheapest fares don't).