9. Pressure groups

                                                                  
Snapshot: To lobby or not to lobby—is that the right question? 
Political actors and political communities—Understanding pressure groups
—Strategic repertoires of Australian pressure groups

1. What are some of the terms used to refer to groups seeking to persuade governments? What are some of the problems with using such definitions?

2. Discuss the rise in importance of professional lobbying organisations in Australia. What are some of the potential problems raised by the use of such organisations?

2.  Discuss the case of WA lobbyist Brian Burke. How does this case study reflect the relationship of lobbyists to the government?

3. What are the four types of organised groups identified by Marsh? Can you think of some examples of each?

4. What are some of the tactics employed by lobby groups and pressure groups to influence government policy? Which are most effective?

5. Where does advocacy fit into this picture? Discuss some of the criticisms made of advocacy groups. Do you think that advocating on behalf of those who are unable to advocate for themselves can be problematic? How might this issue be resolved?

6. The Howard government developed a policy of subcontracting charity groups to provide community services. Discuss the implications of this for charity groups who also act as advocates on behalf of their communities?

7. Do you think that community organisations and NGOs offer individuals an effective means of interacting with government?

Resources

Read an extract Clive Hamilton and Sarah Maddison (eds), Silencing Dissent , pp.78-11

Mark Lyons, The Third Sector: The contribution of non-profit and cooperative enterprise in Australia, pp204-212
Read an extract (PDF)

Australia Council of Social Service