well all i know is LR country files are usually processed faster may be in 6 months or even earlier, but i dont think if it matters if you work for council , no one cares in immi about it , well if your manager wants to apply your file thats ok , as you have mentioned he/she has applied 457 before , as long as they have all the documents it shouldnt be a problem, you save about $5000 too,
for the last question regarding your husband i would suggest you to go see a good migration lawyer for consultation before you apply, make sure you see a lawyer not a migration agent,
i hope its helpful!