Renew my Chinese passport

Dear sir/madam
My passport will be valid till 10th Dec 2011 ,but for personal reason i can't make it back to Brisbane until Christmas period, can I renew my passport on 28 th or around that time even it will be expired soon, or somehow Should i post it to Brisbane to get it renew. Also if I do need to attend in person, does any appointment apply in advance.
Thanks