Preparing an approach to government in South Australia

The decision and the public interest

A briefing should explain the problem, the proposed response, the effect on affected people and the action requested of government. Commercial benefits to the organisation may form part of the context, but the case also needs to address the public responsibilities of the decision-maker.

The appropriate route depends on the decision. A departmental assessment, regulatory process, ministerial decision and parliamentary inquiry have different responsibilities and procedures. Establishing the process helps the organisation direct its evidence to the right audience.

Preparing the material

Use checked facts, identify assumptions and separate the organisation’s preferred outcome from matters that remain unresolved. Technical or financial analysis should be supported by its source material, with the responsible specialists available to answer questions.

Before the approach, agree who can speak for the organisation and what they are authorised to propose. A meeting brief should make the requested decision, supporting reasons and limits of that authority clear.

Registration, disclosure and follow-up

The South Australian Attorney-General’s Department publishes guidance on lobbyist registration. The applicable registration, disclosure and conflict requirements need to be checked for the particular activity and adviser; an article does not establish an adviser’s status.

After a meeting or submission, record the questions raised and any further material requested. Follow-up should address those questions accurately, without representing discussion as an undertaking or a favourable decision.