Margaret May Comment
2010 will bring with it an federal election.
For many people election day is the only time they will engage with the political process - they will start listening a week or two out from polling day, make a decision and then cast their vote.
But I would encourage people to become engaged much sooner than election day and there are many ways that you can.
Committee hearings are one way people can have a direct say about policy. These are held during the year and people are able to make submissions or give evidence to a Parliamentary Committee.
If you have a policy idea, why not discuss it with your Local Federal Member. Over the years I have taken a number of policy ideas to various Ministers which have been implemented.
Question Time, Parliamentary Debates, Senate Estimates and Committee hearings are all able to be accessed via the Parliamentary website at www.aph.gov.au plus a whole range of other resources such as the Parliamentary sitting calendar is available.
The political process can be very confusing but I want McPherson residents to know that my office is more than happy to explain how they can become more involved in the Parliamentary process by calling 5580 9111.
Australia's political system is, in my opinion, second to none. Elected representatives try their best to represent the Australian people well. Our system is not perfect but nevertheless it is very good and I believe would be better if people became more involved in the political process.