Travelling to China in Mar/Apr 14, but are leaving Australia in Jan 2014 how can I get 1 mth visa?

A single entry can only be valid for 3 months from issue date. If you leave Australia 3 months before entering China, you need to apply for Chinese visa in another country. The fact is that it is getting more difficult to apply in a third country unless in a country of residence. But as I know, it is easy in HK.