If you really want to spend up to your budget than I'd definitely recommend an 8" dob as well. But for a gift I'd be looking at something like the link below. Doesn't require any assembly and you could put some of the remaining budget towards a book or two (Atlas of the Southern Night Sky or something on the Messier objects maybe).
https://skywatcheraustralia.com.au/p...e-dobsonian-2/