When most people think of Parliament what springs to mind? The argy-bargy as two passionate teams fight it out, talking at each other across the room with the umpire, the Speaker, attempting to keep control? This argy-bargy is a real thing and we were lucky enough to witness the theatre of Victorian Parliament Question Time firsthand. Thankfully this is such a small part what actually happens in the Parliament sitting week. As a group we were all privileged to hear about all the good work and congeniality that exists within our government.

During these packed two days we heard many different angles on how the government has come to be what it is today. The prosperous beginnings of the 1850s were on display throughout the heritage building. Even if politics is not your thing, it’s worth the time to visit for this alone. However, politics, as unappealing to some it may be, was presented to us consistently as a worthy and rewarding career path. Somebody who considers themselves an ordinary Joe can reap great rewards if they take up this civic challenge. This community service is extended to opportunities to sit on boards, with the common thread being the importance of being in it for the right reasons. A South West local who held a position as a Senior Staffer informed us during a briefing it was the best job she had ever had.

We had the chance to meet several serving members and their staffers over an informal networking lunch. It was a great way to see the other side of our politicians away from Question Time mayhem or the interrogation of a reporter. The resounding message was that effectively lobbying, and the best outcomes could only be realised through clear and consistent messaging.

These two days were a real insight into the workings and function of the Parliament. All of the LGSC participants gained deeper understanding into the process of getting things done and the path required to ensure action from our government. With Melbourne’s street art admired and dumpling houses raided, it was back to the South West we went.