There are 5 posts that appeared whilst i constructed this one (had interruptions). Please bear this in mind as I do not have time to take any new information into account...
If size is an issue then stipulate an approximate maximum. If cost is an issue then stipulate the limits on your budget. If you definitely do not want to look at anything outside the carpet group, then say so clearly. We need to know these things in order make relevant suggestions. Otherwise we end up wasting our time effort playing guessing games. A potential side effect of that is people will not bother responding to future questions as they do like wasting their time and knowledge. So you need to work out ahead of time the limiting parameters on what you wish to purchase. Once we are made aware of these criteria, we can then help you to develop a list of possibilities that meet them. Bear in mind that the information we can provide on species and sub-species is general and while it may be true for most individuals, there are always some exceptions to the rule. So once you have made your choice, it is up to you to buy from a reputable breeder or keeper to ensure the temperament and response to handling are what you are seeking. Should you decide to purchase from another source, please don’t complain if the snake is not how you were lead to believe it would be.
Once you have your list, take the very wise advice, so clearly given, and choose that which really appeals. So if you cannot go through the list and find something with the ‘wow factor’ that gets your heart beating faster at the thought of having one of your very own, then don’t buy another python. Or, alternatively, broaden your criteria and try again.
It is worth pointing out at this point in time that Mother Nature did not design pythons to be soft and cuddly animals. They evolved as superbly effective predators. Apex predators, that work alone and give no quarter to their competitors. They are not naturally predisposed to being handled or cuddled. At the same time their only means of demonstrating they are not comfortable is biting and or constriction. So if cuddling up with your pet and never being bitten are your primary desires, snakes are the wrong choice of pet.
Based on what you and others have said, plus a bit of input from myself, the following is an attempt to establish your list…
Given that Darwin albinos and Coastals are out in the Morelia group, the Murray-Darling carpet Morelia spilota metcalfei is the standout option for temperament and handling. It is would be closely followed by the Centralian carpet Morelia bredli but this species can ultimately exceed 2m. Whilst Diamonds are generally good on handling and temperament, they can get large and due to their specific requirements are definitely not a reptile for the novice keeper.
Outside of the Morelia group and excluding Antaresias, the only other option that appears suit your criteria is the Woma Aspidites ramsayi. Overall Womas would probably have the most placid temperament of any Australian python (except when feeding) and are highly amenable to handling. If they do get agitated or defensive they invariably head butt rather than bite to let you know to leave them be. There are various forms available – from different locales. These vary in maximum size f 1.5m to 2.7m and also colour and patterning to a degree. I do have the information on the different locales and will see if I can locate if you need it.