I'm pretty sure MPO members have priority standby clearance, which would suggest that should extend to oneworld elite as well.

Is there ANYTHING good about CX's operations from LAX, incidentally? The indications I have been getting from threads seem to be surly and incompetent ground staff, a higher risk of getting an unhappy cabin crew (I understand LAX is the most hated longhaul on the network, although maybe now that is second to the JFK nonstop), a potential risk of a refuelling stop on the way home and a miserable terminal.

Makes me think that perhaps AKL isn't that bad after all.