glitter

Which one would be more preffered , applying a visa using an agent or self?

Hi, i've been very much frustruated for the visa issues and i need some advices. My partner is an Australian citizen and im a tanzanian citizen. its been almost an year now since we have applied for a partner visa through an agent from Australia. im not sure the visa documents were submitted immediatly but by now they're in. we haven't got any responce yet from the immigration that i need to have my medical tests, biodata's or submite my passport. Does the immigrations take this long being so quite, without any actions taking place? Is it possible for me to apply for a visitors visa in the mean time? (while my partner visa is being prossesed) Do i have to mention that i've applyed for a partner visa in my visitors visa application? is it possible for me to do my health tests and collect my biodata in Aussie? Do i have to use a travel agent to submitt my application and documents? I'll appriciate if i get a sincere responce from you. Regards.