Visa application requirement and where can I apply?

Marvin, if you don’t have residence permit or work permit in Philippines, it may be troublesome to apply for it in Manila. So if time is enough, you’d better apply for it in Australia. If you apply for tourist L type, you need to prepare your passport and its copy, the filled-out application form and a recently-taken bareheaded color photo, your residence permit in Australia, as well as accommodation booking record and round trip air tickets. And then submit your application to the CVASC to apply.
As for HK travel, you can go there freely for a stay of no more than 90 days.
If you want to travel to Tibet, after your entry to PRC, you need to find a travel agency and then ask it to apply for a Tibet Travel Permit for you, after that, join a tour group to go to Tibet. Please note that when you apply for PRC entry permit, you’d better not mention that you plan to travel to Tibet.