Urgently need a Visa!

Hey! I've been travelling around Asia for about 2 months now and I'm currently in Australia. I have a friend who lives in Beijing and I would like to take a detour to China on my way home to the UK to see him. I found the Chinese embassy in Sydney (where I currently am located), however, I read that the visa must be applied for within 2 weeks before going). As I have been travelling for so long, this is the only time I have been able to apply. Can they issue it on a rush service as my flight to Beijing is on Sunday! Help!

Thanks! Christina