QFF: shoot for Silver or cop out and buy QC?

Also, since when does an op-up earn you extra status credits? I've only ever earned the status credits for the class of travel I booked/paid for, even in the case of an op-up...

It did for me. SYD-SIN QF5 oversold, so op-up'd but also diverted via BNE, SYD-BNE-SIN. Perhaps the perceived inconvenience was a reason. All I can tell you is that I was offered full J points and status credits as part of my diversion package, which I accepted.

Sounds very lucky! I guess it's a bit more than an op-up if they changed your routing.

I was quite delighted, I will admit!

I'd consider the QC membership, which of course you can still use if you're flying on a cheap JQ fares. If most of your flying is domestic you will find your points earning isn't increased as a SilverFF due to the 1000 minimum points garuntee QF apply. For many domestic sector legnths, the 25% earn bonus doesnt break the 1000 point threshold and you end up with 1000 points regardless. 

I would actually be on a 50% bonus, as the Silver points bonus was increased as part of an enhancement designed to align bonuses with Velocity.

A major issue with flying JQ while having QC is that I'm based in Sydney, and the power of the QC is slightly diminished by having to walk out to T3 and then back to T2. Still, this is a very valid point and one I will take into consideration before making my decision tonight.

That would lead to a completely different travel strategy, though, involving seeking cheap JQ fares and legging it through the tunnel.

if you are doing overseas trips,priority pass is the best,as you can use it for lounge access,in any class flown,or any aline used and it is cheap compaired to qantas club which you can only use with qantas/BA.hope this helps

Neither QC or Silver is worth much. And to someone who won't be doing much flying it is worth nothing.

I know children in Africa who would appreciate the $500. Try the world vision website.

This is a circular conversation, get a woolworths everyday rewards card you have to eat, this will keep your points rolling along including validating those you have already accumulated. If you can also get a QANTAS woolworths Credit card as that will also accumulate more points all at a normal living cost. Your Status will lapse if you don't fly anyway so let it go back to bronze get a QC membership and enjoy reciprocal benefits where and when possible including JQ and oneworld.