Effective engagement with the government
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Amongst the not-for-profit (NFP) sector there is keen interest in changing landscape, and what these changes mean for the programs and causes championed by your organisation each day.
By understanding what makes the new government tick you can begin to build constructive relationships and maximise opportunities for you organisation.
It’s true that the government will want to demonstrate fiscal responsibility in an attempt to prove its economic credentials to the electorate.
The Coalition understands the enormous value the sector brings, and they will be on the lookout for innovation and efficiencies in the sector.
Where your organisation can demonstrate measurable returns on investment through providing an independent social impact report, independent revenue streams or constructive partnerships with the corporate sector, you will find minister’s and their advisers particularly receptive to your work.
Importantly, the government will not control the new Senate when it commences in July 1, so building relationships with the cross-bench is important and can help you gain significant leverage.
At all times consider how you can frame your issue and objectives so that it will resonate with the values and priorities of those you are engaging with.
Do your research so you understand what these values and priorities are.
About Jo Scard
Fifty Acres founder, Jo Scard has over 25 years’ experience in communications, political advisory and journalism. Scard is one of Australia’s foremost strategic advisers to corporates, government and NFPs.
Jo Scard, Founder and CEO of communications and engagement agency Fifty Acres, has over 20 years’ experience in communications, corporate and political advisory roles and journalism making her one of Australia’s foremost strategic advisers. A respected former journalist in the UK and Australia Jo has worked with ITV, Associated Press, Seven Network, SBS, ABC and Fairfax. Jo has been a senior adviser to the Rudd and Gillard government’s and to the British Labour Party. A trained lawyer she is a Member of the NSW Council of the Public Relations Institute of Australia and on the Boards of Fitted for Work and Hockey ACT. Jo started Fifty Acres over ten years ago because she wanted to create an agency that supported flexible work and that was motivated by strong values and work in the for-purpose sectors.
