You certainly would have paid a joining fee. The Qantas website is a bit obscure in this but it does have the following rider: "The above prices include a joining fee (except life memberships) ...".

At current rates, a 4 year membership will set a non Australian resident back about US$1080, a subsequent 4 Year renewal will cost US$845.

FWIW, a one year partner membership for a US resident costs US$350 which includes a US$155 joining fee. A renewal next year will cost US$195. For 4 years the figures are respectively US$600 with US$445. (A partner Member must reside at the same address as the primary member.)