Hey Brett, there is about a ten week lead time with the ATF paperwork. It is worthwhile getting it organised even if there is a chance that you won't travel, it is easier to cancel than get in short order. I got caught out last year due to having to have two lots of shoulder surgery, I wasn't sure if I would be able to shoot and by the time I worked out that I could it was too late to get the U.S permit. Luckily I had a generous mate over there that loaned me rifles for the event. The Aussie paperwork can be done in the last month before you travel, if you already have a CCID number.
We fly into Dallas 21st June and plan on getting to Raton on the 2nd July as I will be calling the line at the CLAS Nationals the week before I shoot the BPCR Silhouette Nationals.