The situations are not exactly analogous Phx. The US citizen who was going to Australia and didn't know they needed a visa was entering the country. A US citizen who is transiting through Australia, provided they are remaining within the airport terminal and staying less than 8 hours would not require a Visa.
Chrisal's girlfriend was not intending to visit the USA, she was simply intending to change planes there.
Chrisal,
Sorry you won't get to spend Christmas with your gf in Geordieland. The weather is pretty good actually, cold but clear blue skies and no rain!! I was in Newcastle on Thursday... so mild, no-one was wearing a coat!
