In answer to everybody who kindly replied. I agree with all the senetiments. I am only advocating contacting DIMIA when it is becoming evident that there is a potential problem, not just for a casual update. Yes we are very lucky to be able to apply for a visa, we are also lucky to have more than one set of clothes, that puts us in the richest 30% of people in the world. If we have a bank account (and a credit card to pay for an application) that puts us in the richest 15%.
Nevertheless, we are in that position, it dieosn't mean that we have to scared of contacting someone! Why is purchasing a visa that different to purchasing another untangible item that secures the future, such as a pension scheme? Ultimately some of us are having to sacrifice financially in search of a better life in Oz and I didn't feel guilty at all about asking DIMIA when I would expect my card to be debited because they had signed for my application delivery over a week ago. The pound is shifting, so I want some idea of how much it will cost me.
I guess that I'm simply pointing out that DIMIA are not doing this for love, but as their job. I was equally prone to the fear of contacting them, but have found them extremely helpful when I have had a genuine question, on two occasions. We therefore shouldn't feel any different about contacting them when it is necessary than anybody else we would have doing a job for us.
-- Seabird
