Transiting through SYD and a few other newbie questions

Hi guys,

I'm flying with QF for the first time in a few weeks (hence also my first post on the Qantas board).

A few newbie questions if you don't mind?

Firstly, I arrive into SYD from HKG, and transit to PER.

- I presumably clear customs at SYD, and re-check bags for flight to PER?

- I have a 7hr 15m layover due to ticketing restrictions. I'm flying J, what are the chances if I ask nicely at check-in I will be moved onto an earlier flight?

- Returning, I am flying PER-SYD-SIN-LHR (Dep SYD 14/12 05:45, arr SYD 13:00. Dep SYD 15/12 on BA16 at 16:25, arr SIN 21:30. Finally depart SIN on BA12 on 16/12 at 23:20). Obviously I can't check bags all the way to LHR from Perth, but what would be the most efficient way to check bags in, without having to use airport left luggage? Both layovers in SYD and SIN are just over 24hrs.

- Finally, what is the 738 like with domestic J? I hope it's better than what BA have just introduced for shorthaul J!

Thanks in advance