Legislators and Government Appointed Officials

• Diploma of Local Government Administration

Politicians are the elected representatives of the people. They formulate the rules that underpin society, and are elected to act in the interests of the electorates they represent.

If making and amending laws, standing up for people's rights, and using your voice to influence the society we live in are important to you, then getting involved in politics and perhaps becoming a politician may be for you. But keep in mind that you'll be under the spotlight and the media's penetrating gaze. That old saying, 'If you can't take the heat, get out of the fire' may have been written with politicians in mind. It's also a very demanding job. Whether you are in the State or Federal tier of government, as a politician, you'll spend much of your time away from home - in the 'House', in meetings, in planes and cars or in your electorate.

Not quite the career you are looking for? Please try the related course profiles below:

Influencing and Personal Contact

Designers for Theatre, Performance and Events,  Receptionist (Tourism),  Accountant,  Police Officer,  Event Coordinator,  Restaurant and Catering Manager,  Hotel Manager,  Counsellor and Community Worker,  Aboriginal and Torres Islander Health Worker,  Trichologist,  Travel Consultant (Domestic and International),  Child Care Worker,  Film, Stage, TV and Radio Director,  Bank Officer,  Musician,  Butcher,  Nursing (enrolled),  Sports Coach,  Legislators and Government Appointed Officials,  Personal Trainer,  Private Investigator,  Landcare Officer,  Human Resources Manager,  Veterinary Nurse,  Ecotourism Guide,  Park Ranger,  Author/ Book Editor,  Tourist Information Officer,  Beauty Therapist,  Florist,  Actor,  Project and Program Administrator,  Cellar Door Salesperson,  Reflexologist,  School Services Officer,  Youth Worker or Disability Worker,  Conveyancer,  Copywriter,  University - VET Lecturers and Tutors,  Patient Care Assistant,  Aromatherapist,  Fitness Instructor,  Hairdresser,  Occupational Health & Safety Professional,  ICT Network Administrator,  Market Research Analyst,  Sales Consultant (IT),  Credit and Loans Officer,  Marketing and Advertising Specialists,  Retail Sales Supervisors and Assistants,  Management Consultant,  Real Estate Agents & Property Managers

Literary

Film, Stage, TV and Radio Director,  Legislators and Government Appointed Officials,  Author/ Book Editor,  Actor,  Legal Secretary,  Copywriter,  Librarian

There are no specific education requirements to become a politician. However, due to the nature of this occupation, it helps to have a broad educational background. Knowledge of law, economics and business are highly recommended. People interested in becoming politicians to contact the party of their choice, or a current or former Member of Parliament, to learn first hand what will be expected of them. This will also help those people determine whether or not they would be suited to this exceedingly demanding occupation.

TAFE SA offers a Diploma in Local Government Administration which can be a stepping stone towards further studies and gaining employment in this area.

Individuals interested in entering politics usually get involved in one of the political parties such as the Australian Labor Party, the Liberal Party, the National Party or the Greens. A few, sometimes driven by particular local or national issues, stand as independent candidates. Candidates who want to stand on behalf of one of the major political parties are pre-selected by current members of that party. Those who win a majority of votes at pre-selection, go on to stand at an election. If they win a majority of votes at election, they then go on to represent an electorate and its members.

Entry to this small and exclusive club is very competitive. You'll be pitching your passion and talents against others seeking the same goals, and 'the people' will decide on the value of your claims. That's democracy! Most politicians have already carved out successful careers in other fields, such as law, business, agriculture, economics, industrial relations and community services.

Government Administration and Defence

Australia is a democratic country with a representative government elected by Australian citizens over the age of 18. The country has three levels of government, Federal, State and Local. Each level has different responsibilities and powers. Local Government has elected councillors who, while voluntary and part time, undertake some similar tasks to Federal and State politicians, but at the very local level.

Local Government is therefore sometimes a stepping stone to Federal and State politics. It is a stage where the craft of politics can be learnt and there are lots of opportunities to participate. State Governments' responsibilities include police, courts, state infrastructure including highways and schools and many of the public utilities such as water and power supply. The Federal Government covers such areas as defence, foreign affairs, social services and telecommunications. The Federal Government also delves into areas of state responsibility when they are considered to affect the national interest, such as education, health and the national road and rail systems.

Excellent communication skills are just one of the many skills you'll need to do this job well. You should have an understanding of the social issues facing Australia and the ability to act as an advocate for people. You must also be able to relate to all people and have the ability to focus, because you'll have to digest enormous amounts of information.

A politician's life is a hectic round of House sittings and debates, committee meetings, talking to people in her electorate, answering their questions and trying to sort out their problems. One moment, pressing matters of national policy, the next, the concerns of the local community. Politicians whose stars shine brightly often make it to Minister (of Health, of Education, of Defence, etc). A very rare few become leaders - the Prime Minister, State Premiers and Leaders of the Opposition.

The starting salary for politicians is about $90,000 and this may go as high as $230,000 for an Australian prime minister. On top of a salary, politicians are also entitled to many allowances such as travel, transport and accommodation entitlements.

For further information about all TAFE SA Courses, phone 1800 882 661 or email tafeinfo@saugov.sa.gov.au