Not sure where to start?
Not fully understanding the politics, history or complexity of issues makes letter writing feel like a stretch for some. But you don't need to "be political" or have any credentials other than a postcode to put your concerns on the record. You're the expert in your every day and our elected representatives are answerable to us. That's life in a democratic country. Just start with what's bothering you or what you'd like to see done better.
Writing to your MP is one of the oldest ways to have your say, and plenty of people will tell you it works: a letter that sparked a question in Parliament, or a policy that shifted after enough constituents spoke up.
The honest answer is we can't know how often that's true, because there is no requirement for an MP's office to keep letters on file, aggregate concerns, or even reply (a templated reply isn't any better). An email might genuinely change a mind, or it might sit disregarded in an inbox, and from the outside those two outcomes look exactly the same. Who knows?
Open Letters makes sure your letter exists beyond that one inbox, in the context of other letters, visible and open to support. As they say, there's strength in numbers – and as we say, in transparency too.
A clear, personal letter is more powerful than a perfect one. Use this simple structure to get started:
- Say who you are and where you live. Start with your name, suburb, and postcode. This shows you are a local constituent.
- Be specific about one issue. Choose one topic rather than a long list.
- Share a personal story or local example. Connect the issue to how it affects you personally and/or why it is relevant to the Fremantle community.
- Ask for something concrete. It needs to be more than a whinge to get something off your chest. What do you expect them to do? Support a bill, raise a question in Parliament, meet with locals, or explain their position? Share any other ideas or requests for dealing with the issue.
- Be respectful and brief. Robust criticism is fair. Rudeness ain't. Aim for 200–400 words to keep it focused and clear.
The independent, non-partisan site They Vote For You publishes federal parliamentarians' full voting records. There you can find how Josh Wilson has voted on issues you might be interested in, including divisions on housing, the environment, climate, and democratic reform.
You can also visit Josh Wilson MP's official website for his ministerial responsibilities, media releases, and local office contact details.
For state issues, visit Simone McGurk MLA's official website for her portfolio responsibilities, media releases, and local office contact details.
Open Letters (Fremantle) is a public noticeboard, not a private messaging service. We do not send or forward your letter to Josh Wilson MP or Simone McGurk MLA; we publish it here so the community can read it, upvote it, and see what the electorate cares about. By publishing letters openly, we create a shared record of what Fremantle is asking for, help newcomers learn how to take part, and show that constructive civic dialogue can matter between elections.