F.A.Q

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Why did you become a politician?

I became a politician because I wanted to ensure that local people get a fair go and that Chisholm gets the services it needs. Getting involved in politics is a great way to help people and make a real difference to their lives.

I believe that everyone deserves to be treated fairly, no matter where they live or how much they earn. The Labor Party stands for equality of opportunity, which means that everyone has a right to services like education or health, and an income that helps them care for their families. I am also a strong believer in social justice, which is another reason why I joined the ALP.

As a Federal Member of Parliament, I help people resolve any problems they may be having with Federal Government services. These problems may concern taxation, education, Medicare, immigration and social security matters.

I also help obtain government funding for local projects, such as more childcare places or improving the safety of local roads.

In politics there’s no such thing as a typical day! No two days are the same, which is one of the reasons I love my job so much.

My responsibilities differ, according to whether I’m in Chisholm or in Canberra.

When Parliament is not sitting, I meet with local constituents in my electorate office in Syndal to help them with any problems they may have. I regularly travel around Chisholm to attend events and functions held by local community groups, so that people have an opportunity to talk to me about matters that concern them.

In Canberra, I have many important responsibilities, such as participating in debates on national issues and voting on legislation. My duties as Deputy Speaker also keep me very busy.

I spend about 20 weeks each year in Canberra.

My office would be more than happy to assist you with your politics assignment. If you would like to interview me, please email through your questions to mailto:anna.burke.mp@aph.gov.au

You can also go online to view some very interesting fact sheets about Parliament:

http://www.peo.gov.au/students/

Probably! I’m deeply committed to the education of young people in Chisholm and I support local schools in many ways. I often visit schools in Chisholm to present them with Australian flags, to talk to classes studying politics and to participate in graduation ceremonies. I’m always pleased to welcome local students when they visit Parliament House in Canberra.

I would be more than happy to visit your school. Please contact my office on 9802 0566 or email mailto:anna.burke.mp@aph.gov.au  if you would like to arrange a visit.

It’s always hugely satisfying when my office is able to resolve people’s problems. Every day my office gets dozens of calls from people who need assistance with various matters, and helping them is one of the most important parts of my job. I don’t care how big or small their problem is, I will always do my best to help – even if it isn’t a federal matter! It feels great to be able to make a real difference to someone’s life.

One of the achievements I am most proud of is my highly successful campaign to protect people from unwanted telemarketing calls. In 2005 I moved a Private Member’s Bill in Federal Parliament to create a ‘Do Not Call’ register, which pressured the former government into adopting my policy. I have received thousands of phone calls, letters and emails from people across Australia in support of my campaign and to thank me for fighting to protect their privacy.

Juggling family and professional responsibilities is a challenge for all working families. I’m fortunate to have a very supportive husband who helps me with the care of our children. While I love my job, it can be difficult travelling to Canberra because it means time apart from my children, John and Madeleine. I recently installed a webcam on my computer in Parliament, so I can read them a bed-time story in the evening.

I have it a lot easier than many other working mothers though, especially those on low incomes. One of the issues I feel most passionately about is affordable childcare. If a mother chooses to re-enter the workforce, she needs all the support she can get.