Hello...just to update all our batch mates and future applicants:
1) We asked our agent to follow up the status at exactly 3months after we lodged.
2) 17-Oct same day, there was an email reply that our application has been assessed way back 28-Aug and the mail was forwarded to Brisbane team to respond to the status query.
3) 22-Oct Agent received approval confirmation (direct grant) Initial entry before Aug2015.
Few thoughts:
a) When to follow up after we lodged? it really depends on the situation. Applicable to both independent and via agent. When we send follow up either call or email, make sure you have basis and justification on why you are checking.
No harm to check on the status but for example like what happened to us, we really can't push the agent to do the query when it was only 2months.
b) If your plan is still on track such as; when to have the big move, resignation from the current work, allocation of resources etc. it'll not hurt much to wait for the response within the stipulated processing time instead of we end up being ignored or worst might ask for other documents.
c) Like for some who also made follow ups after not hearing anything, it's good to monitor the progress. But for the peace of mind of everybody which we got this from the agent..."if you are worrying about your application, it's fine no need rush confirmation is on a cases to case to basis. If they want additional documents they will surely ask for it."
I hope my wife and I are correct to assume that once we have lodged our visa it's like guaranteed already so only those very questionable and has incorrect information provided could be rejected.
Good luck po saten lahat, very best of everything to all the plans. Let's continue to pray for the success of each and everyone of us.