Government policymakers are about to make a decision that you think will have terrible consequences. Or they are pursuing ideas that aren’t a disaster but could be much, much better. How can your organisation change their minds before it’s too late?
Writing a policy submission in response to a proposed policy or reform can help your organisation shape government decisions that impact your business, the people you represent or your entire state or country. Contributing expertise and evidence to public debate also builds credibility with governments, regulatory bodies and industry groups.
In our experience helping leading organisations prepare policy submissions on a range of topics, shaping policy requires more than simply sharing your opinion. A strong submission makes a clear and credible case, is supported by relevant evidence and practical insights, and includes recommendations policymakers can act on. It also presents information in a way that responds directly to the issues policymakers are considering.
Why make a policy submission?
Governments typically invite submissions as part of consultations on proposed policies and reforms. This process allows policymakers to gather insights, expertise and real-world perspectives from groups that stand to be affected by a proposed reform, legislation or funding change.
By making a submission, your organisation can highlight how proposed changes could work in practice, identify potential risks or unintended consequences, and recommend ways to improve outcomes.
Submitting your views can also help build your reputation by positioning you as a credible and engaged player in a particular policy area. This will help strengthen relationships with government and regulators, raise your organisation’s profile and open the door to opportunities.
What makes a policy submission effective
When calling for submissions, governments frequently provide guidelines on what to include and how to respond. These can range from asking specific questions and providing submission templates to broader invitations to provide feedback on consultation papers and explicitly welcoming different submission formats.
However, even detailed submission guidelines leave plenty of room for organisations to decide how best to structure their arguments. Here are our top tips for turning your ideas into clear, compelling submissions.
Pick your issues carefully
Before you begin, consider whether the issue is strategically important to your organisation, whether you can really make a difference, and whether you have relevant expertise or evidence to contribute.
Understand the policy context
Read the consultation materials carefully to identify the problem policymakers are trying to solve, the outcomes they are looking for, the questions they have and the constraints they face. We’ve found that understanding the government’s objectives is just as important as having a strong argument of your own.
Be clear about your position
State which parts of the proposed policy you support or oppose early on, before getting into the details. If the submission guidelines allow, start with an executive summary that sets out your main points, using clear, persuasive writing to communicate your position.
Answer the questions directly
Organise your submission clearly and follow the guidelines for length, format and supporting material. Make it easy for reviewers to see how your position relates to the proposed policy.
Back up claims with evidence and real-world experience
Use relevant data, research, examples and insights to support your position. We find that concrete examples showing how proposed changes will affect businesses or individuals are particularly effective for bringing arguments to life.
Make practical recommendations
Don’t just identify problems – be specific about what you think should change and suggest realistic actions policymakers can take. It’s often easier to identify the shortcomings of a proposed policy than to develop workable alternatives, but doing the latter will make your submission much more valuable to policymakers.
Make your submission easy to navigate
Use clear headings, logical organisation and plain English to make your submission easy to follow. Avoid unnecessary jargon and explain technical or industry-specific terminology.
Start early and allow plenty of time for consultation and review
Avoid last-minute rushes by giving yourself enough time to consult internal experts, gather evidence, reconcile different views, and draft and refine your arguments. Set aside time at the end to check facts and proofread your submission carefully.
How we can help
At Editor Group, our professional writers and editors have helped many leading organisations turn their technical expertise, original research and professional insights into clear, persuasive arguments that speak directly to policymakers’ concerns.
By combining a clear position with solid evidence and practical suggestions, you can help ensure policymakers see the full picture when setting policies that affect your industry and future success.
We can help you craft a policy submission to influence policymaking in your sector. Contact us to discuss your requirements.
Ylla Watkins