I'm thinking of going to Australia in December and I want advice on which of these 2 trips to choose.

Just a few things to keep in mind:
- I've narrowed it down to these 2 since I want to see Sydney, the reef and theoutback/uluru and all that
- I'm planning to visit family in Perth for a bit after my tour and I won't be able to stay in Australia much longer than a month
- It will be my first tour and I'm not one for organized tours...I mostly like to plan things on my own but I love meeting new people

Also how quick do I have to book these tours since December seems to be available but November and January already sold out

and are there (cheap) flights from Alice Springs to Perth???

Thanks for the help