Why write?
The word from insiders in MPs’ offices is that emails and letters are taken very seriously – and counted! For everyone who takes the time to raise an issue with them, they know there are many more people who feel the same way. If they receive lots of correspondence on a particular issue, it will be discussed in policy meetings and can have an effect on decision-making.
MPs are supposed to respond to all communications from their constituents, but they are much more likely to sit up and take notice of a personal email or letter as it shows their constituent cares enough to take the time. And it doesn’t matter if it’s an email or handwritten letter – they all count.
You don’t have to be an expert. Keep it short (a page or less) and personal. Write what you feel. Explain why the issue matters to you and, most importantly, what you want your MP to do about it.
Subscribe to our monthly MPEG News Update to receive regular tips, issue briefings and event information to help you engage with your MPs.
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Here are some examples, tips and issues to get you started!
Issue briefings with email examplesWe’ve prepared some briefings on current important climate issues for you – each briefing has a summary and background notes with suggested questions to ask, who to send it to and an email example of how to do it. Choose an issue that appeals to you, click on the photo, and go for it! Then, when your MP replies (or doesn't!), follow up and keep them accountable – check out the tips in the speech bubbles below. If you'd like to have some company while you're writing, join one of our MPEGs (MP Engagement Groups)! Track your contact with elected reps here! |
Energy transition |
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*WIN* - legislation strengthened and passed, April 2023 |
Ask the federal government to stop mining coal and gas now |
Demand an end to government subsidisation of fossil fuels |
No to Viva’s proposed floating gas terminal in Corio Bay
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Upgrade building and construction standards to net zero |
Demand stronger EV and vehicle emissions policies |
Gas cooking, heating and hot water is cooking the planet |
Oppose government funding for new gas at Beetaloo |
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Demand investment in clean green hydrogen, not blue or brown |
Demand a stop to gas drilling near the 12 Apostles |
Say NO to the Narrabri gas project, and a ‘gas-fired’ recovery |
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Climate and environment |
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Demand the Samuel Review recommendations are implemented |
Demand protection for our Great Barrier Reef |
Tighten land clearing legislation across Australia |
Demand governments preserve wildlife habitat |
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Demand governments join the dots on floods, fires, drought and climate |
Ask government to support better agricultural practices |
Demand an end to native deforestation |
More stimulus for conservation and land management projects |
Climate justice |
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Our food security is at threat from global warming |
Demand government enshrine a duty of care for future generations |
Human Rights claim due to Australian inaction on climate |
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Ask governments to back BZE's Million Jobs plan |
Ask for an active response to the Climate Council’s Clean Jobs Plan |
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Democracy and governance |
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Congratulate and connect with your new or re-elected MP |
Make an appointment to meet with your MP |
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Ask your council to set net zero targets |
Repeal anti-protest laws |
Demand Government releases this “too hot to handle” report |
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Submissions and briefs |
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Links to climate-related projects accepting public submissions |
Issues of democracy and parliament influencing climate outcomes |
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Brief notes on some extra climate topics |
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Track your contact with elected reps here!
More helps and tips
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Email templateWrite one from scratch |
Writing tipsGeneral guidelines |
Get publishedWrite a letter to the editor |
Following upMy MP has replied! |
No responseIt's been a month! |
