Grassroots Lobbying: Local Groups
The rising tide of awareness and concern for the climate provides friends and allies for us all to press for action. We don’t have to act alone. Together we are greater and have a greater impact. So, let’s build the tide into a tsunami before a real one hits us.
Local Groups
Gathering forces and resources can be achieved by joining an existing CCL group in your state/territory.
If there isn’t a CCL group in your location, perhaps you can gather your own group together.
Invite a few friends over or simply talk with them about CCL
Figure out a simple, easy activity you can do together
Schedule a social meeting at a cafe
Share ideas and seek support on Slack from other CCL members
Participate in relevant CCL training together
Review the CCL website and playbooks together
Divide tasks between you according to skills and interest. Some are good at liaising with people in the community; others at organising; chairing; record keeping; social media and writing etc.
Make calls to reconnect with volunteers who have been active in the past. Follow-up promptly on any interest shown.
It’s always more fun together. Democracy is not a spectator sport!
Engaging with the Outside World
Tabling: set up a simple table at a market or fair and have a friendly chat with people about our climate solutions
Clipboarding: print out some simple information to gather ideas and opinions from the local community. Surveys conducted in this way are useful for presentation to MPs or community leaders when you are lobbying them
Speaking and Education: volunteer to speak at educational institutions, business associations and/or other gatherings
Events: join in community events
Writing: post items to Social Media. Write letters/articles/news items to the local paper.
Lobbying: and, of course, meet with your local State/Territory, Federal Members of Parliament, Local Council members and community leaders
Have Fun
Appreciate and acknowledge the work that is done in your group.
Find ways for people to get to know each other and work together.
Have time in meetings for one-on-one and small groups.
Plan how you will deepen the relationship with your MPs and community.
Resources
Take the opportunity to practise your writing and lobbying skills by enrolling in our Climate Action Workshop.
