It can feel strange having to prove your relationship to the Department but unfortunately there is no way around this. These visas (onshore, offshore, finance/ prospective marriage visa) have a really long waiting time so some people reduce their stress levels by appointing an agent who will be on the other side of the phone every time they need assurance. There is a trend where well lodged applications are fast tracked. We tell our clients we often get grants in 8 months but can’t guarantee this time frame.