Jo Scard, CEO + Founder of Fifty Acres, shares some insights into how social change organisations and NFPs can effectively engage policymakers and stakeholders, and embrace change, for-good.

Just shy of five months into 2021, despite a few cluster scares, restrictions are easing and Australia is slowly bouncing back from the uncertainties served by 2020.

The past few weeks have seen cities beam with life again, dance floors are back in and face-masks are (largely) out, and a guaranteed seat on public transport is a distant memory. In an unlikely turn of events, ‘normal’ is trendy…and once the weather has been covered off, conversations with friends circle back to an analysis of just how ‘normal’ things are feeling…

Of course, some things will never go back to the way they were pre-pandemic. Many lessons from 2020 will have a lasting effect for years to come. The way we work, spend our time and respond to the world will never be the same. The past year has seen a huge amount of social change seen in the form of protests, public speeches, social posts and media coverage.

Movements including Black Lives Matter, School Strike 4 Climate and Women’s March 4 Justice have created such groundswells that decision-makers can no longer turn a blind eye. However, news in recent days about the continuation of alleged police brutality against black Americans, as well as the latest reporting on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders lives lost in police custody here in Australia, acts as a stark reminder of just how far we have to go. We must keep hustling, advocating, educating and striving for fundamental human rights and social justice.

Now is the time to ensure that your organisation’s voice is part of the conversation. But with MPs with more on their plate than ever before, how do you ensure your not-for-profit organisation’s message is being heard?

Read the full article on Pro Bono News.

Looking to work with a PR and communication agency that can help you navigate government engagement? Get in touch with our team at info@fiftyacres.com to learn more.