Regular trips to Canberra became the norm, as we lobbied to remove economic discrimination and introduce marriage equality. Most of the lobbying I did was with Rodney Croome from Tasmania and occasionally there were times we would include others.
This was my dream to actually be able to talk to politicians and have them hear my story and point of view. Initially, I was relatively quiet because I was busy learning. But it didn’t take me long and I had as much to say as anyone else. Plus, I wrote regular letters to them about my concerns, which meant they were getting to know me and what I stood for.
When Lobbying
- When lobbying, it’s important to have reasoning and logic. Additionally, it’s necessary to know and understand the negative side of the debate, so that you can debate or speak against their opinions, but it should always be done respectfully. Getting nasty or being insulting gets people nowhere, except the meeting ends early and its unlikely to get another opportunity to meet with the person again.
- There was a Senator (who shall remain nameless) who met with me regularly. He believed the stereotypes and myths and whenever I met him alone, the conversation was completely different. He asked the most inappropriate questions, and we would chat politely as I explained the reality to him.
- I am also a big fan of dressing in a manner that keeps the person you are meeting comfortable. Trying to keep them on-side and in their comfort zone is essential.
- If people don’t wish to do that, don’t, but remember the importance of winning.
- One day, an on-side MP told me that it’s wise to keep telling the same story over and over. He said it can get boring, but it works well. So, I did, I thought he knew more than me.
- Finally, when you go to meet an MP, always take a hard copy of your story and how you or someone you love are impacted. Very often, when you are having a meeting, their mind can be on many things. They can read your hard copy later and take the message in properly. Believe me this is worth the effort.
