Your Politicians

Do you know who your elected representative is in the Federal Parliament?

You might be surprised to learn how 'in tune' your local MP is with disability issues for families. Some local MPs have a very impressive knowledge of the issues based on discussions they have had with families in their electorate.

A few others could perhaps do with a litter further education about the issues, and it may be that the best way for this to occur is for you to pay them a visit.

If you have never visited a politician before, don't be over-awed. They are just ordinary people like us, just with a slightly different and unusual day job.

If you don't already have contact details for your local Federal MP, it is easy to look them up via the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) website. It even includes an 'Electorate Search' function if your are unsure of your electorate.

Once you know your electorate and the name of your local member, you can find their contact details under 'Who Represents You', 'Representation', 'List of Members of House of Representatives'. You can also phone the AEC on 13 23 26 for this information.

Another source of information about 'who's who' in the federal parliament is the Parliament of Australia website www.aph.gov.au.

Getting involved in a Community Cabinet meeting is another way to inform politicians from the government about the key issues for families of children with a disability.

If you ever feel inspired to communicate by email with the Prime Minister, the way to do this is through the 'Contact Your PM' section of his website, www.pm.gov.au.