I am a contract PM, managing a small project within a much larger programme. My project is highly dependent on corporate decisions that come to me via the in-house Programme Manager. Unfortunately, the Programme Manager is involved in some very challenging aspects of the bigger programme, and consequently is unable or unwilling to devote sufficient time to answering my questions or directing me in line with (ever changing) corporate decisions. Because the corporate position is in constant flux, my project's goals are also subject to regular change, but I don't hear about them in good time. This is impacting on my ability to make progress. 

The Programme Manager is also my line manager, and the organisation is highly hierarchical, and takes a very dim view of people (especially contractors) bypassing their managers to escalate issues.

What should I do to both make progress and protect my position?