It’s always a good time to engage in the public process. That’s the response I gave an industry peer when he asked me whether an election campaign is the right time to start government relations.
The assumption is sound – policy is not usually made during election campaigns. But government processes are cyclical. Each year has its own cycle, and these are nestled in the broader electoral cycle. Each cycle has a purpose and process. And within each of these cycles, there are avenues for influence and participation.
So where are the opportunities in the federal government right now? This of course depends on your mission and what you’re trying to achieve. If, like the for-purpose organisations I’ve advised over the years, you’re seeking to influence government policy to bring about long-lasting social change, here are some broad principles and approaches you can take right now during the election campaign.
Firstly, some points on language – people often mistakenly use the terms apolitical, bi-partisan, non-partisan interchangeably.
DON’T be apolitical – DO be political! It’s not a dirty word. It’s a right and a deep privilege. Follow the issues and think about your organisation’s mission to inform how you might contribute to better policies of government.
DO be non-partisan (not bi-partisan). Play the policy, not the politics. We want the policies and changes for which we advocate to be adopted by the Parties (bi-partisan, or multi-partisan) so that they survive changes of government. However, we want our advocacy efforts to be non-partisan so that the focus is on the message, not on the values of the Parties to whom we’re advocating. That said, you need an understanding of what drives decision-makers and start from there to a position of mutual benefit.
So what does this mean for influencing opportunities during a campaign?
As you’ll have noticed, there’s not much space for policy dialogue during the campaign period as each Party seeks to set the agenda and then “win the day”. Watch out for opportunities where the public discourse aligns with your policy asks. Come out publicly to back in the policy, or to speak up accordingly when it doesn’t. On issues where you or your organisation is expert, offer informed and evidence-based opinions. Where you’re aligned but adjacent, best to show your support or disaffection by freeing up space for others more qualified to speak on this issue. This also keeps your brand clear and focused on your priority issues.
During a campaign, Australian Caretaker conventions mean that traditionally the Government avoids making decisions which would commit an incoming government to policy, appointments, contracts or engagements with international governments. In Caretaker, public servants are preparing for all possible outcomes, drafting extensive briefing documents for incoming ministers. Colloquially these are known as Red and Blue books (actually there are three: government returned, government returned new minister, change of government). These public servants are apolitical and serve the government of the day. During the election, you might like to talk to them about how they might interpret announcements and opportunities in your policy area of expertise and where you bring significant electoral clout.
Finally, prepare for the election outcome. Here I recommend playing a long game. Focus on building plans and relationships that transcend the political cycle. Use this time to clarify your “policy asks” and hone your message. Develop your strategy. As a first action, this might mean writing to new or returning ministers congratulating them on their successful election result and outlining areas where you can assist them with their policy priorities and your expertise. This is an invitation to engage, advance existing relationships, and to develop new ones for the longer term.
Do also consider Shadow Ministers or those who share your policy goals. Just because they’ve been relegated to the Opposition doesn’t mean they’ve lost their interest in issues. Remember that the Opposition is the Alternate Government and may form the next government depending on the election outcome. They will have their own influence as the Alternate Government and representatives of their electorates and seats. Outside of an election, the Opposition is fundamental to the functioning of democratic process in our Westminster system of government. Consider also new entrants into the Parliament. Backbenchers have fewer resources associated with fewer responsibilities. This means they may have more time and will be hungry to advance issues which got them elected, or that they can be convinced are worthy.
Even more influencing opportunities are likely to arise this year in the Cross-Bench which will likely grow as more Independents and smaller Parties look set to win seats. They will have issues that drive them and commitments to the people they represent. And they will have increased bargaining power in the case of a minority government seeking to make change.
Most importantly, be ready for anything and take action!
Sabina Curatolo, Director, Aiki Advisory – https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabina-curatolo
Sabina leads influence and impact strategy in executive and organisational contexts, with extensive cross-sectoral experience across government, civil society, and impact investment. Sabina has leveraged formal training in systems thinking and public administration into a well-rounded set of skills in complexity and ambiguity to drive long-lasting social and environmental change.
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