The Museum of Australian Democracy acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of country throughout Australia. We recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the elders past, present and emerging.

The museum respectfully acknowledges the role that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continue to play in shaping Australia’s democracy.

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    From the blog

    Five people to write a letter to

    4 minute read

    Mon 28 Feb 2022 by
    Katie Sproule

    Dearest Reader,  

    Greetings and salutations!  

    With a federal election just around the corner, there is no better time to proactively engage with democracy and make your voice heard. In an age of emails and DMs, a handwritten letter is a great way to have your message stand out. So, dust off your stamps and pick out your favourite pen as we suggest five people you can write to. 

    1. Your local Member of Parliament - The primary role of an MP is to represent the opinions of their electorate in debates over laws and policies. One of the best ways to amplify your voice is to write to them directly.  Find out where to send your letter and how to properly address an MP.

    2. A loved one – Remind a friend or family member that you love them by writing to them. Include one of your most hilarious shared memories, lyrics from their favourite song, or a recommendation for a TV show or film you think they will enjoy. For an extra surprise, print a photo of the two of you and slip it in the envelope. 

    3. Your local newspaper editor – Look up your local newspaper to find out their address. In Canberra, it's the Canberra Times.  What issues most impact your community? What do you think we should do about it? Keep your letter short and sweet to pack the most punch.  

    4. Someone who inspires you – This could be anyone! It could be a sporting hero, an entertainer, or even one of your old teachers. Thank them for the influence they’ve had on your life. It might just make their day...

    5. The Prime Minister – Take your concerns straight to the top by writing directly to the Prime Minister. Make a case for which issue you think needs to be addressed most urgently and why. Try incorporating evidence to make your point extra convincing. This website will tell you where to write and how to formally address the PM.  

    We hope that we have inspired you to take pen to paper and get writing. Open and honest communication is integral to both our personal lives and the ongoing functioning of the democratic process. May this be the first of many letters.

    Yours Faithfully,  

    MoAD 

    P.S. Not sure how to format a letter? We’ve included some infographics below to make sure you know how to properly dot your I’s and cross your T’s.

    4 minute read

    Mon 28 Feb 2022 by
    Katie Sproule

    Katie is an emerging museum professional who has worked as a PlayUP Facilitator at the museum since early 2021. She is currently completing her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Screen Studies at the Australian National University so spends most of her free time thinking too hard about bad movies. 

    Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House

    18 King George Terrace, Parkes, ACT 2600, Australia

    PO Box 3934
    Manuka ACT 2603

    9am to 5pm daily 
    Closed Christmas Day

    ABN: 30 620 774 963

    Telephone: 02 6270 8222

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    Please note: video surveillance is used 24 hours a day around and throughout the building and may be used for research purposes

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