28 - 29 March 2006

Frequently asked questions

How should I write my CV for the event?

Here is an example of the style of CV expected by the MPs you will be meeting with. Remember that it should be succinct and to the point, emphasising the value of your work to Australia:

"I'm working on the social and political aspects of fisheries, specializing in Japanese and Pacific Islands tuna fisheries. This is useful because it adds to the mainly biological and economic perspectives used in fisheriesmanagement. My research has included a Japanese joint venture in Solomon Islands, southern bluefin tuna fisheries in Japan and Australia, and development from tuna for six Pacific Islands countries. My teaching about Japanese society is both in the classroom and also through distance education, and encourages students to go as exchange students to Japanese universities for a year. My teaching is thus useful because it internationalizes our graduates, who then go on to work in a range of professional fields."

What should I wear?

You will need business dress for your meeting with Parliamentarians, and less formal clothes for the Briefing Day and the dinner. Remember that Canberra can be cool and wet in late March.

Can I store luggage at the Library, the National Press Club or Parliament House?

The Library and Parliament House have cloakrooms with limited capacity for suitcases, so it would be better to take your luggage directly to your hotel, and collect it again at the end of the event. There is no place to store luggage at the Press Club. CHASS can't be responsible for luggage.

What time does the event begin and end?

Begins at 9.15 am on Tuesday 28 March. Registration opens from 8 am. Ends at 3.30 pm on Wednesday 29 March. Some MPs are requesting appointments between 3.30 and 6 pm. If you can make yourself available at those times, you will have more appointments.

What should I bring?

Plenty of business cards - it's a great net-working event. Brochures or simple information about your work, something you can leave behind with your MP.

Does Canberra Airport really get closed down by foggy mornings?

Yes, but generally not until further into winter.

What's included in the registration price?

We provide morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner on Tuesday; and breakfast, morning tea and lunch on Wednesday. The registration fee covers most of the cost of organising the event, including administration, all the documentation, and the busses to the NPC. It does NOT include transport to Canberra or your accommodation.

What if I register, and then cancel?

Full refunds will be made for cancellations before 14 March 2006. No refunds will be made after that date because of the extra administration in re-scheduling appointments.