Will,
I don't really know if a MAC is better than a PC or vice versa. Especially these days.
As far as brands go- IMHO you will get more bang for your buck if you go to a computer builder- you can get a much more powerful machine this way. You will probably get a machine for around $1500 from a builder that you would pay $2500-$3500 for a 'branded' machine.
You can also easily stipulate what you want inside your box.
For video editing, I would suggest plenty of RAM and a good video card would be my first choice with a big HDD thrown in.

Hi Will,
You might just as well have asked "how long is a piece of string?"
First you must decide;
1. What you want to do
2. How quickly you want to do it
3. How much is your budget
4. What is your level of computer literacy, i.e. have you enough nous to choose your components and then put it all together, preferably so it works.
Once all of these questions are answered then it's time to shop around.
As Dick says, choosing a branded machine will cost you big bucks. It's much better to decided on the above questions and then shop (IMHO) online. It will save you heaps. There are bargains to be had everywhere. On line there is much competition. Google for "best deals on computer parts - Australia" or some such queries.
What you've asked is far too lengthy a subject to go into detail on here. I'd suggest stipulating your requirements in a post on here and be guided by the replies you get.
We all think "our machines" are the best thing since sliced bread BUT what suits me may not suit you, if you see what I mean.
Let us all know how you go on.
Good luck.

The question isn't really what platform but what software. I use Avid Liquid Edition for my editing which is only available on PCs where as if you were going with the Adobe line (premier, photoshop, aftereffects etc) I would suggest a MAC as it is the native standard for the market.
If you are only after basic photo and video opperations then either would suffice. MACs are 'nicer' to use and look amazingly sexy, but it does cost a little more. Just think, what EXACTLY does it need to do, and then make ur decision around that.

Will,
As a newcomer to video editing - I agree with Dick's comments.
I updated my video card and driver, also run 1GB of RAM on PC.
Software maker recommends that a separate HD for capturing video - so I have two HDs.
Good luck.

This is a question of either/ or. Having used Final Cut Pro on Mac's, and Premiere on PC's, I have a slight leaning towards the PC, but only because I've used PC's alot longer.
Again the main thing is to have as much RAM as possible and lots of Hard Disk space.
As both of the program's mentioned are about $1800+, you might like to look at some of the freebies such as Kino (Linux). I haven't used this, but have heard that, with patience, it can produce good results.