The Australian visa process is surely designed to keep people out. It is so complicated that the faint hearted give up and stay where they are! We are here now on a permanent visa. It took us over 5 years to apply, get the money the together, validate the visa and get out here, so my advice my not be completely up-to-date.
Do an english test - I did it to increase our points. Completely pointless as I have a degree, phd, work experience as a proof-reader, etc. in addition to being a native speaker. Also it costs money (of course!), but it may help to tip you over the limit. I did the IELTS test, which is held regularly around the country.
Other than that I can't really think of anything. Your age, qualifications and work experience will larger determine the points that you get. You will less points as you wait longer and maybe go down a category, but if you wait a year or so, maybe your work experience will go up (without the points for age going down?!). Do you have time to do further qualifications? I think that they changed the visa system a few years ago, so that you can't get points for relatives (although I may be wrong).
My feeling is that if you going after the working visa is no longer applicable (30s and 40s) your life experience will determine, if you are desired by Australia. They seem to want young well-qualified professionals. Good luck :)
BTW, the wages are higher here. So that the cost of coming out will be gained back eventually, so don't let that put you off! We are really happy here and despite the pain-in-the-arse visa process are very glad that we did it, and do respect the Australian's for their attitude (ignore the moaning!)