Aussie passport needs to apply Chinese Visa in Istanbul or Althens, which one issue the rush visa

Both China consulate in Istanbul and China embassy in Athens provide rush service or express service, however, for China visa application in a third country, it is really hard to give a sure answer because the visa rule applies differently in different countries.

Maybe the consulate or embassy will deny your application for the reason that you are just a temporary visitor in the country rather than a long-term resident. I can only say "try your luck!"