With 2025 an election year, the 2025-26 budget will be handed down by the Treasurer in March 2025, so now is the time to develop your budget submission seeking funding from the federal government as part of the budget deliberations.
Ahead of our October webinar where we will offer some pointers on how to stand ahead of other competing organisations, here are some key points to remember as you prepare your next budget submission.
- Do your research
When preparing a budget submission with a key ask to the federal government, it is important to base that request on clear evidence. What benefits is your organisation currently delivering for surrounding communities, and how do those outcomes link in with the government’ national agenda. Whether you’re focused on health care, social services or other offerings, developing data around economic savings you are creating for the country is key.
- Identify case studies to help tell your success story
Your clients and stakeholders are potentially the best storytellers for your budget submission, highlighting the benefits your organisation has delivered, and how their life has improved through your services. If time and resources allow, you may like to consider including their testimonial as a video to bring their story to life..
- Limit the document size
Often the most successful budget submissions are clear, concise and succinct. The government needs some background information on your organisation, the level of funding you require, the benefits you are delivering and how it helps the government’s objectives and some client/customer testimonials. This can often be submitted in the form of a 10-15 page document. Longer documents may be skimmed over when attempting to attract focus, compared to short, sharp submissions.
- Identify the most influential Parliamentarians within your portfolio
It is important that your budget reaches the desks of the right Ministers and MPS so your submission is considered fully and you can create ambassadors within the walls of Parliament, and potentially influence outcomes. This is especially likely if your ask can help that Minister meet portfolio objectives.
- Don’t forget follow up meetings
As with most pitches, it is important to get in the room with those you wish to lobby. A week or so after you have emailed your submission, it is important to follow up with a call and set up a meeting with relevant Ministers and MPs to discuss your organisation, its services and how additional funding can benefit more Australians.
If you need assistance developing your budget submission, Fifty Acres can help. Email jo@fiftyacres.com to arrange a time.
