Etihad/VA Syd>Auh Dubai World Cup Stopovers Status Credits Points

[Flyinfish]

Hi all.
I'm trying to plan some flights from Sydney to Abu Dhabi for the Dubai World Cup, while maximising my status credits and points with VA/Velocity.
Some questions!
I've worked out the best way to maximise status credits is to use flight connections in Melbourne and Perth.
I can find the flights I want on Etihad and VA (more expensive) searching on return.
I can also find searching on multi-city, but I'm assuming if the flight from Perth to Sydney was bought on a multi-city option, it would be regarded as a domestic rather than international flight?
I wouldn't mind a day or two in Perth.
Also, I'm finding it hard to bring up all the available flights I want on both return and multi-city searches. I found an evening flight from Perth on one date, but can only find morning flights on my preferred dates? Virgin has multiple flights a day from Perth...
Do I need a travel agent?
Any other tips? Cutting costs and maximising rewards

 

[Must...Fly!]

These combinations can be tricky in my experience. Branch out (if you are not afraid) to different OTAs. One will provide what you are looking for. Check out google flights and ITAMatrix to help you find the combination you want.

Else, a travel agent would also be recommended. I personally do not use one, but members here can recommend some names.

I am unsure on the Velocity side of things if you have a stopover - but in practice the website does say the following. I would expect international level SC.

"Domestic flights booked within an International journey will accrue Status Credits at the earn level for international flights."