FIGURE2 The six categories of political participation
Activities with political implications
Voluntary work
Informal political action
General social participation
Awareness-raising
Altruistic acts
• Formal or informal voluntary work
Activities focused on bringing about or preventing change
Activities that have political implications but not focused on change
Informing or challenging other opinions
Acts of kindness, such as giving blood or donating to charity
Being a good neighbour General solidarity with others
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SkillBuilder discussion Evaluating democratic institutions and systems 1. How does voluntary work contribute to the political process in Australia? 2. What role do protests and demonstrations play in inþuencing public opinion in Australia? 3. How can contacting politicians help address community issues in Australia?
12.6.2 Contacting representatives Every Australian is represented by elected ofýcials at three levels of government. These representatives work for their communities and want to hear from citizens about important issues. There are ways for you to get involved and contact your representative, such as: • writing letters and emails
• making phone calls • requesting meetings
• attending community forums and meetings • following and engaging on social media.
Don’t just show up, make sure you do your prep work. Make sure you research your issues, have clear points to make and suggest possible solutions. It’s also important to be professional — ‘you attract more bees with honey than vinegar’, as the old saying goes! Write or speak clearly, be polite and respectful and make sure you follow up if needed. 12.6.3 Working with groups Sometimes joining with others can be more effective than acting alone. Australia has many interest groups and lobby groups that work to inþuence government decisions.
TABLE1 Groups that can inþuence government decisions Group Explanation Interest groups
These groups focus on speciýc issues or represent communities. They might: • share information • support their members • work toward common goals • organise community activities. Examples include sporting clubs, environmental groups and parents’ associations. These organisations try to inþuence government decisions. They often: • research issues deeply • meet with politicians • run media campaigns • propose policy changes. Examples include business organisations, unions and professional associations.
Lobby groups
TOPIC12 Government and democracy 461
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