That thread does kinda degenerate into a discussion of shoes and what defines a lesbian *larfs* so an updated thread probably wouldn't hurt.
http://www.bol.com.au - Beds OnLine is still up and running and offers a range of different kinds of accomodation in and around the Melbourne area.
http://www.honey.net.au/ - unfortunately these guys are now doing a minimum four week stay in the second apartment (and the first one is taken), but the prices are good, particularly for more than one person. If you asked really nicely, and no one else has taken it, they might let you have a shorter booking, on the grounds that it's better to rent it for a short booking than not at all *g*
I've also stayed at the
Cosmopolitan Apartment as mentioned on BOL, and it isn't a bad place. They do weekly bookings, are within a block or so from the town hall, and are definately worth checking out.
The Vic Hotel is, of course, your best bet for a combination of low price, decent rooms, and great location, but if you're prepared to stay a little further away, you can get better prices in a backpacker hostel. If you can find people you already know who are coming down and will share with you, you can get one of the larger shared rooms for a cheap price per person, and not have to worry about sharing with strangers.
If you're really broke and want to save all your money for tickets, there's always the tent-in-the-park option
