Virgin does not have a direct flight from LAX to Melb so if I choose to go on Virgin I will need to go via Sydney or Brisb to get to Melb. Any thoughts on if either of them is a better option if total time is pretty much the same??

I would try and check how full the flight looks to Brisbane vs the flight to Sydney, if flying economy, you may be able to get 3 seats together, otherwise I'd probably choose Sydney as they have more flights to Mel, at least every 30 mins. Both airports require going from one terminal to another but it's no big deal

Brisbane Airport is easy to navigate and recently done up..I would find it a lot easier than Sydney. If you get a bit of a layover you can hop on the airport train and have a look at the city.

Thanks. Yes the flights to Bris do seem less full & I was also thinking Bris may be a little less busy of an airport. May all boil down to schedule & price though. Thinking through my options!

If given a choice, I'd choose Brisbane.