I think the best thing is to go for the middle range machine and I believe the best are the Sunbeam Starrsky mentions or the Ranchilio Silvia. Apparently there is a Breville which is not too bad and may be a little cheaper but it can't really match the other two for power and decent end shot. Check out the "coffeegeek" and "coffeesnobs" forums for many debates over the best home machines!
The Lelit Combi is made in Italy and a similar spec to the Ranchilio Silvia and is about $850. Talk Coffee in Northcote can get them in - google them and have a look at their website.