Insight
3
min read

How to plan a trip to Canberra (or other Parliaments)      

Published on
August 23, 2022
Author
William Wright
for GovConnex Research
Before GovConnex Research is published here, it's sent exclusively to GovConnex Platform subscribers.

Planning a trip to Canberra (or other Parliaments)                                      

Everything you need to know about planning a trip to Canberra as a government relations professional

Key steps

Identify the purpose and outcomes sought - This is the first and most critical step – without a clear objective of your “wants” your trip may not be impactful.

Identify stakeholders relevant to your issue based on interest or influence - Use tools such as GovConnex to determine which representatives are most vocal on your issue – this should shape who you meet and increase your chances of a positive outcome.

Request formal meetings - Send your meeting requests at least two weeks in advance (ideally four to six weeks) to the stakeholders you plan to meet with. You can read our guide on how to write a meeting request here.

Prepare briefing note(s) for meetings outlining key facts and outcomes sought - Briefing notes should be prepared for all meetings you attend. You can read our guide on how to write a briefing note here.

Plan how to get in and around Parliament house - If you are not a parliamentary pass holder you will have to be signed in by one. They will then have to escort you at all times during your stay in the parliamentary hallways.

Conducting your meetings - Prior research is essential when meeting with parliamentarians or their staff:

  • Make sure you are across the issues of the day – the political story of the day will shape much of your small talk.
  • Clearly state the objective of the meeting.
  • Ask the stakeholder their level of understanding/position on the details/background to issue you are there to discuss.
  • Ask if they have any questions about your organisation, your asks or the issue.
  • Outline key facts.
  • Pitch for your desired outcomes.
  • Leave a copy of your briefing note and any supporting research for the stakeholder to read after the meeting.

Follow up - Make sure you send a thank you and note on any action items the day after your meeting. It is generally appropriate to follow up again two weeks later if outstanding action items remain.

Look for other events to attend - Find social and professional events at places such as the National Press Club – this can be a casual way to meet with a number of relevant stakeholders.

About the GovConnex Platform

GovConnex provides research and workflow software  for teams that interact with the government. Servicing large corporations, government relations firms, industry associations and lawmakers.

Learn more.

Book a demo.


About GovConnex Research

GovConnex Research provides quick insights and reports on all the elections, issues, and news that matters to you. Delivered to customers first. 

Subscribe here to receive our fortnightly Guidance Notes.

Subscribe here to receive our fortnightly Research Briefs.

Subscribe to newsletter

Subscribe to receive the latest insight, research and analysis to your inbox.

By subscribing you agree to with our Privacy Policy.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Research
15
min read

2023 Federal Budget Summary

Everything you need to know about the 2023 Australian federal Budget.
Research
5
min read

2023 Australian Federal Budget Announcement Tracker

Track all the key policy announcements in the lead up to the May 9 Australian federal budget.
Insight
2
min read

2023 NSW Election Preview: Webinar

The New South Wales election is coming up on Saturday 25th March 2023. Become an expert on the race and leave with tangible tips you can action as a public affairs professional.
Research
2
min read

2023 New South Wales Election Power Rankings

2023 New South Wales Election Power Rankings

Want to explore more?

Sign up to see GovConnex in action

Subscribe
Join our newsletter to receive research, analysis and insight.
By subscribing you agree to with our Privacy Policy and provide consent to receive updates from our company.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.