It has been more than two months since the 2025 Federal Election, and with a stronger than expected Labor victory, it’s time to think strategically about how we can engage with the new government. 

Over the past month, we have hosted a series of post-election workshops across the country, unpacking key factors behind the changes in the political landscape, and most importantly, how purpose-driven organisations can best position themselves to meaningfully engage with the new government. 

Whether you are looking to advocate for policy change, seek funding or amplify a certain issue, these four principles can guide your outreach and approach. 

Understand the new landscape

The post-election period brings a wave of change — whilst leadership stays the same, there will be differences in staffing, priorities, and how Ministers operate. Many ministerial offices are reassessing internal roles now that the government is set for at least another three years. This means new advisors, realignments, and evolving dynamics within portfolios.

If you have engaged with the government previously, now is the time to revisit that connection. Where did you leave off? With many Ministers and MPs returning, the relationships that you have previously built may still hold weight. However, even when they stay, their policy focus may shift. So, it is important to be alert to change in tone, direction, or emphasis,

Align with government priorities

Take some time with your team to understand what are some of the goals Labor is attempting to achieve during this term, and frame your agenda in terms that support these goals. It is crucial to always link your priorities to the government’s own narrative.  

Engage strategically

When it comes to engagement, be smart about where you start. Ministerial advisors are often more accessible than Ministers themselves. Building relationships with advisors can help you gather insights, test ideas, and build internal momentum before seeking formal meetings at the top.

Do not overlook the public service either. Strategic departmental briefings can complement your political outreach, especially where implementation or technical input is needed.

And importantly, consider the backbench. With 94 Labor MPs including 64 backbenchers,  there are many who may not yet be familiar with your organisation or cause. This is your opportunity to shape early impressions and build a base of support across the caucus before opinions harden or decisions are made.

Build internal advocacy and time engagement 

Resist the urge to immediately turn to the crossbench or opposition when seeking support. With Labor holding a strong majority, there is ample room within the caucus to build internal momentum. Give the government space to engage with your request, and the opportunity may turn into a solution. 

Think beyond one-off meetings and develop an engagement strategy such as targeted briefings and informal conversations which can build long-term relationships. 

It is also vital to align your activities with the political calendar. Use key moments like MYEFO, the Federal Budget, or sitting weeks to create buzz, hold events, and ensure your issue is top-of-mind when decision-makers are paying attention.

With a clear understanding of government priorities, strong relationships across all levels of influence, and a well-timed advocacy plan, your organisation can help shape outcomes over this term and beyond.

At Fifty Acres, we help organisations across the country build these strategies, and deliver real impact. Get in touch if you’d like to explore how we can support your advocacy goals.