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How do I have my say? · 1 min read

Raising matters with your representatives

Australian citizens can contact their elected representative to raise their concerns about government policy. In this way, all Australians can have a say in forming the laws and policies of a government. If a citizen tells his or her elected representative a law needs to be changed, the elected representative should consider what has been suggested.

Test yourself on this topic

3 questions on this topic, each with the answer explained.

  1. 1. A citizen writes to their elected representative saying a law needs to be changed. What should the representative do?

    • Consider what the citizen has suggested
    • Pass the letter on to the AEC
    • Wait until many other people write
    • Change the law without any debate

    Explanation: A representative is expected to give proper thought to suggestions from the people they represent.

  2. 2. Contacting elected representatives gives Australians the chance to do what?

    • Vote a second time in the same election
    • Decide how taxes are collected each year
    • Choose the leader of a political party
    • Have a say in forming laws and policies

    Explanation: Speaking to representatives is how ordinary people can influence the laws and policies a government makes.

  3. 3. What can an Australian citizen do if they are concerned about a government policy?

    • Contact their elected representative about it
    • Ask the AEC to change the policy for them
    • Refuse to pay any tax until it is changed
    • Apply to a court to have the policy cancelled

    Explanation: Raising concerns directly with your elected representative is the normal way to be heard between elections.

From Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, the official booklet