Well, this is a tough call. I assume you already have your video display and source? (TV and bluray/cable/sat)
I do not know the AUS market. Do you have $1000 US or AUS?
If you are just stuck on the audio end, I would definitely go with what people are saying here. Start with a 2.1 or 3.1 system. When I started with this hobby about 12 years ago, there was no audioholics and I made many mistakes and wasted money by not doing my research, shopping at big box stores, and wanting my system NOW. Don't get me wrong, I still have to fight this urge!
Build your system slowly. In my youth, I did not realize that is part of the joy of this hobby.
- Get something small, but best quality you can afford, with which to start
- Listen for awhile
- Make a list of what you don't like or wish was better
- Ask for advice on a forum like this
- Upgrade what you can afford to upgrade
- Go to step 2
Following this will allow you to enjoy your hobby over years. You will continue to enjoy it as you will always be able to make updates to improve the things you don't like. This hobby you have started, which, trust me, once you get the bite, will be life-long, is a very long marathon; it is not a sprint. Pace yourself and enjoy the view.