Laura - You can go ahead and send your documents to AHPRA now. I don't see any problem with it. I imagine the sooner the better.
Jeng - It wouldn't matter if you post your documents or hand it in personally, they would all go through the same queue. I reckon its better to already have it posted as soon as all of your docs are in order(Unless your flight departs within 2 weeks?). I think that a minimum 7 IELTS score is very achievable. I found 3 materials to be really helpful - materials on ieltshelpnow.com, 101 helpful hints IELTS book, and the Official IELTS practice material on the British council website is actually very similar to an actual exam.
Sarah - I believe Carol applied 17th August, and is expecting to get her letter next week. Looks like Simott101 has applied around the same time as well. (She says 10 weeks)
I had mine sent via Australia Post on 7th September, and their website update stated received docs on 14th September. I literally check for updates everyday. It still says the "Application submitted and paid - waiting on supporting documentation" status though