Easier to apply from home country or Hong Kong?

Hello. Would it be easier for us as Australians to apply for China tourist type here in Australia (Melbourne consulate office) or when we are in Hong Kong for a week just before intended train entry into Guang Zhou?

We have photos and completed forms but have no documents for travel into China nor accommodation yet. This is the reason we haven't applied at the Melbourne consulate. However I have heard that most China travel agents in Hong Kong do not require as much paperwork. But I'm still worried that applying for it only a week before entry may not be enough time to obtain visas for myself and my husband and my two young children.

Please advise!