Hi,
I have flown to oz several times and i emigrated here last month.
Here is what i have found.
Emirates: Very good and helpful. The best i have flown with.
Thai: not bad. Have a bit older fleet so you might not get one of those tv in the head rest things ( very important on long haul).
Qantas / BA: Ok, but i found them a bit snooty.
Etihad: Good, but a very long 2nd leg from Abu dhabi. I think it was just over 13hrs, which in itself is not that long on a long haul, but when you have just flown for 10ish hours it is long.
Please remember this is only my opinions. As for the price you have got i don't think it was that bad.
Good luck and have a great time.