There are some pairing certainties for Australian not-for-profits — submissions and funding, departments and delays, organisational crises and Friday afternoons, and… the powerful partnership of strategic communications and government engagement.
In fact, it’s Fifty Acres’ bread and butter
While presenting as two brilliant tools in a silo, earned media and advocacy are complementary when harnessed together.
Fifty Acres’ unique integrated approach leverages our deep understanding of both government and media landscapes to affect meaningful change for leading change-makers.
Here are three key ways in which government engagement and strategic communications intersect to drive impact for NFPs.
- Well-liked in community = Well-liked in government
Politicians are inevitably influenced by the public perception of an organisation. If a not-for-profit has executed an effective strategic communications strategy, the organisation would have increased awareness and driven interest across owned channels and earned media. Ministers’ offices are filled with staffers and advisors constantly working to mirror their assigned public’s opinion via industry consultations, social media support and resource allocation.
- Increased community trust brings in crowdfunding to support grant
When an organisation is involved in government decision-making for its industry, spokespeople are presented as credible talent for editorial stories. This communicates to the outlet’s audience that their work is credible and important enough to be featured (without paying for it!). This improved trust will ensure public support for an organisation’s causes, such as increased channel engagement, event participation, volunteers and donations.
- Your return on investment is broadly known
It’s always a relief when reaching out to a politician or a top-tier media journalist, and they are already aware of your organisation’s work. Press and government offices keep their fingers on the pulse of the news cycle, tracking discussions and opinions in public forums. If they already have some knowledge of an organisation and recognise its work before the first conversation, the likelihood of further support and action is much higher. If a Minister mentions an organisation’s name on their social media, in a press release, or their Parliamentary speech, or a media outlet utilises spokesperson commentary or writes a positive feature article, organisational events, milestones and impact are known.
Fifty Acres has award-winning expertise and experience in doing good work for great organisations. We work alongside not-for-profits and community organisations committed to making an impact through policy change, awareness or education.
Get in touch today at fiftyacres.com.au or email info@fiftyacres.com. Mention this article to receive a free strategic consultation session.
Check out Fifty Acres Upcoming events:
50 Good Reasons: MasterClass 3 – Engagement + Audiences
Wednesday, 24 April
Getting government attention and support on your issue. We also cover identifying, getting to know and targeting your ideal audience
Webinar: Federal Budget Review + Insights
Wednesday, 22 May
Hear Jo’s reflections on the Federal Budget, and what this means for Australian impact-driven organisations engaging with Government.
50 Good Reasons: MasterClass 4 – Channels + Momentum
Wednesday, 29 May
Utilising your organisation’s channels to planning and mapping your big picture projects into defined and well-managed goals.