The Big Picture: We have created the Online Parliament in CivicEvolution to help you influence the Citizens' Parliament, the Prime Minister, and Parliament by developing proposals to strengthen Australia's political system. A proposal is a well reasoned and supported argument in favor of a specific course of action.

While there are many valid and pressing problems in Australia that deserve attention, our goal revolves around a bigger question: "How can Australia's political system be strengthened to serve us better?" This requires you to think strategically, to think about the big picture, rather than particular problems. You need to focus on how our system of government functions including how it handles problems, or fails to address them.

1. Proposals should be focused on our system of government and not on the services provided by the government.
2. Proposals should address the question: "Is there something about the way the Australian government works that leads to the problems you are concerned about or prevents that problem from being addressed effectively?"
3. By focusing on the root issues of how our government functions and how to make it more effective, we can create a stronger foundation for addressing specific problems.

A good proposal will answer these four questions:

1. "Where is the pain and who is feeling it?" Your proposal needs a clear and thorough definition of the problem and who is affected by it.
2. "What are different ways to address this problem?" Don't fixate on a single solution.
3. "What are the pro's and con's of the leading solutions?" An honest assessment is critical to making a persuasive argument.
4. "What is the best course of action, and why?" Details and supporting evidence will help your case.

The rest of these help pages will show you how to join a team and work together to develop your proposal.