If the lounge is better (e.g. the quality of certain Sky Clubs), it could definitely be worth it. I would bet DL and UA match.

An Alaska Lounge+ membership that gives access to ACs is $550 for AS elites and $650 for non-elites. A Qantas Club membership is about US$300 with a US$60 joining fee. I wonder if these changes will prompt price increases from AS and QF.

I'm happy they are bringing back complimentary tequila.