When it comes to government engagement, timing is everything. A strong advocacy message can easily be overlooked if it reaches decision-makers at the wrong moment. To influence policy effectively, organisations need to understand not just what to say, but when to say it. That’s where the rhythm of parliamentary calendars becomes essential.

What are sitting weeks? 

Parliamentary sitting weeks are the periods when Members of Parliament (MPs) and Senators meet in Canberra (or their state or territory capitals) to debate legislation, question ministers, and make decisions that shape public policy. These weeks are the heart of political life. They are when bills are introduced and voted on, when question time dominates headlines, and when lobbyists, journalists and stakeholders descend on Parliament House. 

For advocates, sitting weeks are both an opportunity and a challenge. Politicians are physically in one place and immersed in the business of governing – but their time and attention are in short supply. Meeting requests can pile up, and the competition for visibility is fierce.

Why timing matters for organisations

The difference between well-timed advocacy and poorly timed advocacy is stark. Approaching a minister about funding priorities after the Budget is handed down, for example, is too late. Requesting a meeting on a Tuesday during a sitting week may mean competing with question time, votes, and media conferences.

By contrast, launching a campaign during the first day of a sitting week can attract media and political attention at the same time. Organising a site visit for an MP during a non-sitting week allows them to spend more time with your community and better understand your issues.

In short: when you engage is just as important as how you engage.

Practical tips for aligning your engagement 

• Map the calendar early: Sitting calendars are published well in advance. Build them into your advocacy strategy at the start of the year.
  
• Time campaigns to sitting weeks: Announcements, reports, and events timed to the start of sitting periods can capture attention when the media and political focus is at its highest.
• Use electorate weeks wisely: MPs and Senators are generally more available outside sitting weeks. This is the time to host them in your community, show them your work firsthand, and build deeper relationships.
• Monitor Committee deadlines: Submissions often have short windows. Staying on top of inquiry announcements ensures you can provide input on issues relevant to your sector.
• Plan for the Budget cycle: Start preparing your pre-budget submissions months in advance, aligning your demands with the government’s stated priorities and fiscal constraints.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned organisations sometimes misstep when it comes to timing. The most common pitfalls include:

• Last-minute meeting requests: Ministers’ diaries fill up months ahead during sitting weeks. Leaving requests too late risks missing out altogether.
  
• Overlooking non-sitting weeks: Too many organisations focus only on Canberra-based engagement and miss opportunities to connect with MPs locally.
  

Ignoring political context

Advocacy efforts that do not connect to the government’s priorities – or that arrive too late in the policy cycle – are less likely to succeed.

Advocacy is About Strategy, Not Just Message

Policy change doesn’t happen overnight. It requires careful planning, persistence, and above all, strategic timing. The parliamentary calendar isn’t a background detail – it’s the roadmap for effective advocacy.

By understanding sitting weeks, committee schedules, and the budget cycle, organisations can ensure their voices are heard when it matters most. Because in advocacy, as in politics, timing is everything.