i really suggest you get a visa. since you've been to china before (as evidenced by your post in the china japan thread), you could probably get a pretty good visa.... then next time, a better visa... before you know it, you'll be in the 2-year club.

but, if you don't take this advice, i recommend that you contact air china. since they run a hub-type operation in beijing (and operate eurpope australia, which requires an overnight, i think), they should be able to provide you with the latest info (these policies change all the time).