[Mania]

Drop a note on your account advising them of your itinerary and due back date.

 

[Mania]

I'm not awaiting an 801 as it hasn't been two years since my grant yet. Do I still need to let the department know?

Let them know anyway.

Although they will track your passport so they will know your offshore. If your not able to have a decision made on your visa then it's very unlikely anyone will be looking to make a decision on it whilst your out of the country.