Suitable Visa for my time in China

Is a transit visa suitable for me if I'm only planning to go through airports and hotels adjacent to them? Or do I need a tourist one?
If I want to make two entries into China in the space of 3 months am I correct in thinking I have to get the six-month double entry visa, due to the limited requirements of the 3 month one?
Also to confirm there is an appropriate place to go for appointment in Brisbane, which can be booked at the earliest convenience for myself? It's not like the post which takes a certain amount of days? Thanks