EP#145: Voices beyond the ballot: How letters shape Australian politics

Work with Purpose: A podcast about the Australian Public Sector

Have you ever written to a politician? What did you hope to achieve?

In this episode of Work with Purpose, guest host Andrew Metcalfe AO FIPAA explores the power of personal correspondence in shaping Australia's political landscape. With around 150,000 letters and emails received annually by the Prime Minister, new research is shedding light on how these messages influence policy and public discourse.

Dr Daniel Casey and Dr Marija Taflaga from the Australian National University unpack the findings of Daniel's research into letters sent to Prime Minister John Howard between 1996 and 2000, and discuss broader insights from the POLEVPOP project on how politicians evaluate public opinion.

From heartfelt pleas and policy critiques to unexpected administrative revelations, this episode reveals how everyday Australians have helped shape the national agenda – one letter at a time.

Key tips:

• Write to policymakers – letters from the public are a vital democratic tool, offering depth and context beyond the ballot box.
• Tell your story. Personal stories – especially those that tug at the heart – can leave a lasting impression on policymakers
• Opt for handwritten or emailed letters. Despite the rise of social media, private correspondence remains a powerful and personal form of civic engagement.

Show notes:

• How politicians evaluate public opinion (POLEVPOP) | ANU
• Explore one of the featured letters: Jeffrey Funerals letter to the PM (1996) | via Daniel Casey
• Daniel Casey, 'Dear John...': Letters from the public to Prime Minister Howard | UNSW Library

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