Advocacy — Letter Writing
You can make a difference
Writing to your MPs, to council, and to government bodies can and does make a difference. It is said that for each letter that a politician receives with a particular view, they assume that there are many more with that view who can't be bothered to write. Writing to a newspaper's editor lets you broadcast your thoughts to a huge audience. So writing is a way of multiplying your vote many times over!
Helpful tips
Get to the point. Write without a lot of waffle. Make reference to relevant documents or policies.
Ask for a written response. That way your letter won't get 'lost' in some filing cabinet.
Approach the appropriate person/body. You need to understand who is responsible for the matter you're concerned about. It may be a council, State, or Federal issue.
Use technology to your advantage. Prepare and use letter templates to make the task quicker. Use email. Share letters with friends so they can send them too.
Use statistics well. These will add authority to your letter, but ensure you get them right. Always quote where you got your numbers from.
Watch your timing. There are times when your letter will count even more than usual. For example, when governments are seeking public comment on EISs. Make sure you write at these times, even if it is a very brief letter or email.
If writing to a newspaper, you need to be real short (100-250 words). Being witty and straight to the point will increase your chances of getting published. Make sure you include your details. If quoting statistics, mention their source.
Sample Letters
General pro cycling - Text, Word
Newspaper Details
Click on the link to email, or fax them at the following:
Sydney Morning Herald email: letters@smh.fairfax.com.au or fax: 9282 2492
Daily Telegraph email:dtmletr@matp.newsltd.com.au fax: 9288 2608 or PO Box 2808, GPO Sydney, 2001
Sun Herald email:shletters@mail.fairfax.com.au or fax: 9282 2151
Sunday Telegraph email:suntele@matp.newltd.com.au or fax: 9288 3311
