A migration agent must write to the client in these terms once the agent has agreed to take on a case –
2.8 Â Â Â Â Â A migration agent must:
(a)       within a reasonable time after agreeing to represent a client, confirm the client’s instructions in writing; and
(b)       act in accordance with the client’s instructions; and
(c)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â keep the client fully informed in writing of the progress of each case or application that the agent undertakes for the client; and
(d)       within a reasonable time after the case or application is decided, tell the client in writing of the outcome of the client’s case or application.
However, just what is taking on a case. The writer’s opinion is that just giving advice (even on payment) and then not taking on the case does not require compliance with clause 2.8. The key issue is whether you agree ‘to represent a client’.