UPDATED 14 DECEMBER
MAPW is asking you to contact your federal member of parliament to urge them to work to achieve an urgent and permanent ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access in Gaza.
On 13 December, Prime Minister Albanese announced, with his counterparts in New Zealand and Canada, support for “urgent international efforts towards a sustainable ceasefire”.
And the Australian government has voted in favour of a UN General Assembly resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, after abstaining on a similar resolution in October.
While we welcome these development, it's vital that the international community maintains pressure on all parties to reach a lasting ceasefire, and address the underlying causes of conflict.
Can you take a moment to call your MP?
Find your MP's Parliamentary Office telephone number: download a PDF list.
If your MP is a member of the Labor party:
- Thank them for Australia's vote at the UN
- Acknowledge the PM's public call for a ceasefire
- Urge practical action and sustained commitment to peace with justice
Here’s a suggested script. It takes just 40 seconds:
Hello, my name is ….
I am calling you about the need for a permanent ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access in Gaza.
[If you are a healthcare worker, give your profession i.e. I am a nurse.]
I welcome the Australian government's UN vote on a ceasefire and the PM's statement.
But I remain concerned about the terrible health and humanitarian impacts of continued conflict in Gaza.
Patients and healthcare workers in Gaza continue to suffer from military attacks, lack of equipment and supplies, and lack of fuel, water, and sanitation.
Healthcare in conflict is protected under international law, and civilians must also be given proper protection.
I would like to know what practical action Australia is taking to protect healthcare and achieve a permanent ceasefire. I would like [MP's name] to acknowledge that the underlying causes of the war must be addressed. I encourage [MP’s name] to act with conscience.
Thank you for taking my call, I would appreciate a formal response from [MP’s name].
Want to use your own words? Some tips and sources:
- Be polite. The person answering the phone may be receiving many calls
- Be brief and direct
- Ask a question, like “what is my MP doing to achieve a ceasefire?” and ask for a formal response
- There are many sources of authoritative information about health and humanitarian impacts in Gaza you can refer to:
Thank you for taking time to call your MP.