Thanks for your replies, I have to agree with Shahin in that I am still trying to establish my long term property investment plan. Initially I am just looking for a set and forget structure where the property will look after itself for the next few years without me having to send too much money back here to Aus. Once back in country I'll have more time to value add and for property in Newcastle/parramatta areas I would be looking for a house over a unit which would give me the opportunity to subdivide etc in the future. 

I can see its not the best way to invest long term but I am really just looking to get myself started with this particular 'bucket of money' which I can then expand when I return in a few years time.