Firstly from a photographer, and I used to work in a camera store,
1. Go hold them. Canon or Nikon will do great, but nothing worse than an uncomfortable camera in hand, as if it is uncomfy, you won't want to use it as much.
2. Be careful buying online. Check Australian only sites. Buying from the o/seas sites can void warranties, and I have seen people get second hand ones sold as new ones.
3. Most DLSR's come in a pack. This usually has a great starting range of lenses. And great value.
4. Make sure you spend a little extra and get a good size memory card, UV lenses for your lenses (great protection) and an extra battery if you think you are going to take a lot of pics or use the video function on some DLSR'S.
5. If you are buying to learn, get a camera with more functions than you know how to use. As you learn you won't be limited by a basic camera, and it can be frustrating. If you just want a basic one then any of the entry levels will be fine.
6. Have fun! No such thing as a bad shot abs the great thing about digital is you can learn the specs of each picture and that also helps guiding as you get more confident.

P.s megapixels are sort if important, but anything over 6 will be fine as I don't think you'll turn your pics into billboards!!