Hmmm... well the processing time for Sydney VO is currently shown to be 21 months and sine you are still within the normal processing time, in my humble opinion, its probably better to keep correspondence to a minimum. Now I fully understand that this waiting game is really nerve wrecking.... I am in the waiting game too but I am sure you do not want to annoy the visa officer working on your case with repeated inquiries.
I am not aware of the full scenario regarding your application and circumstances but I am positive that good news will come soon. And please do not ignore the PAFSO strike thing... recently the dispute escalated and greater no of visa offices went on strike.
I sincerely hope that you get your PR soon.