One of the central mechanisms for organisations to engage in Parliamentary processes is through legislation. The primary purpose of Parliamentary sittings – not just the theatre of question time - is to be legislatures and make, amend, debate and enact legislation. This is often one of the most misunderstood areas for organisations and one organisations can sometimes be fearful of engaging with. Organisations can and should engage with Ministers and Parliamentarians to critiq

One of the questions I often get asked is when is a good time to start political engagement. The answer is it’s always a good time! If you aren’t engaged and letting Parliamentarians know you and your organisation exists, then it is less likely you will be thought of. This includes appointments to advisory groups, invitations to round tables or forums, or inclusion of your initiatives in policy or budgets. The general premise in government relations and engagement is if you

Parliamentary Committees are a central point of inquiry and engagement in every Parliament – Australian, state and territory. They are the mechanism for Parliamentarians to establish inquiries, where legislation is referred for inquiry, and where Minister’s refer matters to be examined by the Parliament. This is where Ministers and Departments appear for Budget Estimates - where the budget and departmental spending is examined. They are a key avenue for any stakeholder – a