what is an acceptable amount to pay brides parents dowry ?

Do you mean the amount in China? Actually, different areas have different amount for the wedding dowry. Generally, 9,999 and 66,666 are common. The former means that their life will last long and the latter refers to that all the thing in their life can go smoothly.

Thanks Larissa. I'm looking to marry a Chinese girl from Chengdu. Her family is in Chengdu, but we would marry in Australia. The suggested dowry from the bride-to-be is near the high end of your scale, but at least it is consistent.