We recently asked our Parliamentary Electorate Liaison Officer some questions about her work with the Parliament of NSW.  Here’s what she told us:

What is the role of the Electorate Liaison Officer?

I act as support and liaison between the Communications, Engagement and Education Team (CEE) and the Legislative Assembly members and their staff across the 98 electorate offices in NSW. I also regularly liaise with Members of the Legislative Council and their staff who are primarily located at the Parliament (in Sydney). Often members will send me a request as they are seeking educational materials to take to school visits when they have been asked to present to a classroom. I support members by responding to their queries and requests, as well as providing promotional materials and information on programs the CEE team organise.

What kind of background / qualifications / attributes do you need to do your job?

I hold qualifications in Public Relations & Event Management as well as Project Management however you do not need formal qualifications for this role. You should be outgoing, with positive and effective communication skills – both written and verbal and display good customer service skills. This role often requires face-to-face interactions as well as email and phone calls. I have worked at the Parliament, in various other roles for nine years and developed an understanding of the various stakeholders we have.

Would you describe a typical day liaising with MPs and Electorate Offices?

On a typical day, I am often responding to emails and phone calls from Electorate Office staff and occasionally direct emails from the member. I also help create promotional packages for members to use and share with their communities – some of these resources are social media images and suggested content and draft shell newsletters for members to send that promote our programs. This ensures people from across NSW are invited to share in the same experience that Parliament offers, regardless of where they live.

On a sitting week, I could be catching up with multiple members. Sometimes it’s in a formal meeting, sometimes it’s in hallways, in a line whilst waiting for our coffees, or as I walk past their offices.  All the members are very easy to talk to and I try to build an individual connection with each of them. Often in our casual chats, members remember to ask for our school resources or ask for ideas on what they can share with their local schools.

Your role also involves assisting the Parliament’s Education and Engagement team with their programs. Can you tell us about your favourite program? 

Parli-Flicks and Festival of Democracy are two of my favourite programs. Whilst they may require a lot of planning and resources to launch, they are often the most rewarding to see. I enjoy watching the creativity unfold from students from various backgrounds, when creating short films for Parli Flicks. I have found the submissions to be engaging and insightful on issues that students are passionate about.

During Festival of Democracy, I get to witness young minds (and even their parents and carers) visit the Parliament for the first time and walk away with an understanding of how Parliament works. With this program, the building comes to life again and there is a buzz of energy and smiles from kids, parents, and grandparents!

What do you love about working at Parliament House?

I’ve worked at Parliament for a while now, across different teams and have loved working with and learning from each of my colleagues. Every person here has a unique personal background as well as a diverse career background. I have been able to learn new information or developed new skills and understandings from each person, which has helped shape me and how I perform my role. I am proud to work here, there is a sense of purpose and service to the people of NSW that is felt across the building. Everyone From the Special Constables who first greet you at the entry, to the cleaners, to the IT team, to the procedure offices, to the Clerks and of course to the CEE Team; every staff member here is working towards a common goal and are proud to support the Parliament and its service to the people of NSW.