SX using the same layout with points
Average
Points
to makes
Finals
(Prems)
Place=> Ave.; 2017; 2016; 2015; 2014; 2013; 2012 (2012-13 adjusted for Sunshine Coast)
1st => 65.7; 70; 73; 63; 70; 63; 58;
2nd=> 57.7; 54; 61; 59; 59; 58; 57;
3rd => 54.0; 42; 57; 56; 57; 58; 52;
4th => 50.3; 39; 46; 50; 57; 55; 52;
The points in 2017 for 2nd, 3rd & 4th were all down on the average but in the case of 3rd & 4th it had more to do with the number of wins than BPs 3rd (8 wins v average of 10.7) & 4th (9 wins v average of 10). 1st (2017 i.e Uni) recorded the same number of wins in 2016 & 2017 yet secured 3 less BPs in 2017. So yes the change in try BPs has reduced the number of BPs but it is a relative decline across the whole competition.
So I'd say the number of wins (4 points for a win) is more important than accumulation of BP. In essence I think BPs have taken the place of F&A, in that they seem to just resolve the pecking orders which is none the less clearly important.