Qantas combines flights with low loads. Not frequently but with some regularity. I notice this on SYD-CBR and SYD-MEL particularily.
I am sure they do, as did the Airlines that I was familiar with, Ansett and TAA.
I am also sure (without having first hand knowledge) that they all still do it, not only Qantas and Jetstar but Virgin Blue, Tiger and any others, IF they have any business sense.