Hi youngaussienurse, Sorry I didn't get back to you earlier but we had the pod cast to record.
Here is the thing, you need to book how you feel the most comfortable. I think AusieJohn has said some nice things about
Dreams Unlimited, which I thank him for.
You can book your reservation for the swan or Dolphin hotel using the link below.
http://www.dreamsunlimitedtravel.com/dreamsres/sd.cfm
You will get the best pricing available by doing it this way. As far as air fare from Austrailia. Ausiejohn can correct me if I am wrong. The best rates will come from booking the flight on-line.
Once here you are correct that Swan/Dolphin doesn't have magical express, but we suggest using
FL tours for your towncar service to get from the airport and back. The nice thing with that you will be able to stop at a grocery store on the way to the hotel and stock up on snacks and drinks for the room. Here is their link to book.
http://www.fltours.com/
For a family of 4 you are looking at $109.00 round trip. to the Swan/Dolphin hotel.
Concierge is not an option at the Swan/Dolphin hotels. Last year the hotels decided to not offer that service option.
If you compare pricing at any of the Disney hotels in the Epcot hotel area. (Beach Club, Yacht Club, Boardwalk) You will be saving a good amount of money staying at the Swan/Dolphin hotel. You will have the same easy access to Epcot and Hollywood studios that those other hotels have. Also you still get to use Disney transportation to the parks and be able to go in to the parks using extra magic hours, which is a great perk to have.