Meeting with politicians

When you are tackling an issue that needs to be raised with a politician always do so in writing first. A short letter requesting a meeting with a brief outline of why you would like to meet them is sufficient.

ASU Delegates and members are natural advocates because they are dedicated and well-informed. By following a few simple rules, you can achieve great results. Of course, changing government policy is hard work, so don’t be discouraged or intimidated if you don’t get immediate results!

How to have a successful meeting

Try and explain clearly to the politician’s office in advance why you want the meeting, what issues you want to discuss and what the aim of the meeting is. Always leave a name and contact number in case the meeting has to be cancelled or postponed.

Be organised
If you are going along as a delegation (a good idea as the politician will then have the sense that you represent a number of local constituents rather than being a lone voice) share out the roles so that everyone plays a part. Jobs that need covering include introducing and thanking; note-taking and following up; and main spokesperson.

Choose the right pitch
Ensure your contribution is suitably pitched to the politician’s level of knowledge. Many politicians will know very little (if anything) about the issues you want to raise. If in doubt you can ask their office for advice on the politician’s level of knowledge on an issue.

Know your subject
While it is not essential to know everything about a subject – be well-prepared. Anticipate both sides of the argument – knowing what you want and why the politician could object to it (particularly if they are not naturally sympathetic to the issue or to unions) is a good way of preparing. Always ask for an action in the meeting – ask the politician to do something.

Be brief
Politicians and their staff are incredibly busy, and so are you. Politicians will appreciate it when you get to the point and respect their time.

Be courteous
Always, always be courteous. Being abrasive or argumentative is almost always counter-productive, and will provide a good excuse to ignore your request.

After the meeting
Get one of your members to take notes at the meeting and follow the meeting up with a letter of thanks for their time, reiterate any key points and remind them of any proposed action. Please send the ASU office a copy of your correspondence and any responses you receive.

Wherever possible, build a relationship. Get the name of the staff person you speak to and try to deal with the same person each time. If the politician gives you assistance, commend them publicly (including letters to the editor or items in newsletter, which should also be forwarded to their office). The ultimate goal is to build a positive, long-term relationship.

Lobbying will also be more effective where it is coordinated. If the issue is not just a local one, contact the ASU office to see if other ASU members are interested in becoming involved in other electorates. Work on issues and campaigns that are union priorities.

Finally, it is also vital to complete a report to help the ASU office stay abreast of union member’s political activity. Use the attached Contact Report to fill in any details of the meeting for your records, and forward a copy to the union office. You can download versions of this Contact Report by contacting the ASU Office on 3252 8666.