Thanks for the replies. I'm having a terrible time deciding what to do! I just can't stomach the idea of buying a confirmed ticket at $1600.00 and I've never nonreved to PER so I'm not sure how difficult it is. Even an ID90 on QF will run me $900 USD.
I'm going SAT April 28 LAX to PER, returning SUN May 6th. I have to be in PER 1st thru 5th otherwise trip is a waste.
Anyone who has nonreved on QF...what are my chances? I will have backup pass LAX to SYD on UA.

Is there one day better than another for nonreving? Is that week an AUS holiday time or anything? Is there weight restrictions or embargos I should know about?