Politicians love a report. If your organisation has a policy, budgetary, or other government related ask, including it in a report is an easy way to give your ask legitimacy and increase the likelihood of the outcome you want.
However, even the world’s best report is useless if decision makers never read it. That is when a Parliamentary report launch comes in.
Launching your report at Australian Parliament house is a proven strategy to generate interest for your cause, maximise the chance of a decision maker considering your ask, and build long-lasting and productive relationships.
It is an opportunity to meet with decision makers, show them the strength of your stakeholder relationships, and deliver your pitch right where the decisions are made.
So, how do you achieve the most impact?
Get the timing right:
More than any other place in Australia, timing is critical for parliamentary events. Events must take place during sitting weeks, when parliament is in session, however, they also need to avoid clashing with Question time, Party Room, extremely high-profile events, high profile speeches, and committee business. Plan ahead as best as you can.
Book a suitable venue:
Parliament has dozens of event spaces, from the Great Hall to smaller alcoves, private dining rooms, and committee rooms. Pick the wrong one, and your report launch can look empty and unimportant, or uncomfortable and overcrowded. You also need to book months in advance, with certain spaces only available to book if you have a sponsoring MP or Senator.
Get your invites right:
Invites need to be short, sharp, and persuasive. All the details need to be clear, and it should be obvious why a given politician should be interested in the event. For example, is it relevant to a portfolio, policy, group of constituents or particular agenda? Invitations should be sent via email at least 6 weeks in advance, with reminders and follow ups sent consistently until the event.
Bring your stakeholders!
MPs and Senators value your stakeholders just as much as you do. Patient groups, advocacy organisations, departmental officials, and peak bodies should be included in your events wherever possible. Elected officials welcome the opportunity to engage directly with these groups, and their presence can significantly increase MP and Senator attendance. Just as importantly, it demonstrates a strong coalition of voices and adds credibility and weight to your policy or funding ask.
Secure your champion speakers:
Finally and arguably most importantly, identify a speaker to champion your cause. This should be a relevant Minister or Shadow Minister, a key committee member, or a Parliamentary Friendship Group co-chair. Champion speakers attract their parliamentary colleagues, frequently amplify the issue through social media, and help ensure both government and opposition are paying attention to your event. Their involvement significantly elevates the profile, credibility, and impact of your advocacy.
Bringing it home:
A successful event is the first, though not the last, step on your advocacy journey. Following the event, it is critical to engage with key decision-makers and their staff to convert momentum into outcomes. Prompt follow-up and targeted private meetings provide the opportunity to properly brief, reinforce your message, and actively progress your ask.
