Australians living in the UK wanting Chinese Multi-entry Tourist Visa

My partner and I are currently living in the UK on a Working Holiday Visa. We would like to travel to China for tourism purposes only and would like some information and assistance please.

I have tried to contact the China Embassy here in London but as we hold Australian passports (not UK passports) I have been unable to get accurate information and assistance.

We are planning to visit China in March 2013 and would like to know the following about a multiple-entry:

1. How to apply from the UK being Australian's?
2. Cost to apply?
3. Do we first need to purchase our flights before applying for the application?
4. Do our Passports need to be sent anywhere and if so what is the turn-around time?
5. Any other information that may be of assistance?

Your help with this would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks
Bec