Submitting: Do’s & Don’ts

Learn the essential do's and don'ts of writing a powerful submission to oppose harmful legislation. This guide offers practical tips on crafting clear, respectful, and persuasive arguments to ensure your voice makes an impact.

DO:

  • Be Clear and Concise
    Use plain language to express your points clearly and avoid unnecessary jargon.

  • Stay Relevant
    Address specific sections or aspects of the bill that concern you, and back your points with evidence.

  • Be Respectful
    Maintain a professional and respectful tone, even if you strongly oppose the legislation.

  • Use Personal Experiences
    Share your own experiences or insights to illustrate how the bill may impact individuals or communities.

  • Provide Solutions
    Suggest alternatives or improvements if possible, showing you are constructive in your critique.

  • Proofread Your Submission
    Review your writing for spelling, grammar, and clarity before submitting.

  • Collaborate if Needed
    Work with groups or organizations to strengthen your submission with collective knowledge and expertise.

DON’T:

  • Don’t Use Offensive Language
    Avoid insults, personal attacks, or any disrespectful remarks, as they undermine your credibility.

  • Don’t Copy and Paste Entirely
    Avoid submitting templates or pre-written responses
    without personalization, as unique perspectives carry more weight.

  • Don’t Ignore the Focus
    Stay on topic and avoid straying into unrelated issues or personal grievances.

  • Don’t Overcomplicate Your Points
    Avoid overloading your submission with excessive technical details or irrelevant information.

  • Make personal attacks: Submissions that target or abuse specific individuals, including MPs, will be dismissed.

  • Include personal details: Avoid personal details in your submission text that you wouldn’t want publicly available; these can be added to the form separately.

  • Don’t Miss Deadlines
    Late submissions are typically not accepted, so ensure you submit on time.