Most of us have never made a submission to a parliamentary inquiry before, but don’t be intimidated. We’ve put together a few tips, some examples and links to help you make a submission, to inform the committee, so it can make strong recommendations to parliament and improve Australia’s response to Long Covid and the ongoing issue of reinfections.

This is an opportunity to finally be able to raise our voices, share our lived experiences, and be heard by our leaders with the intention to inform and influence. Their recommendations depend on the quality of the information they receive from individuals and organisations from around the country.

How to write to the committee

Firstly, don’t be intimidated by the idea of writing a submission. A friend suggested thinking of it like writing a letter to a loved one and you want to tell them your personal experience and write from the heart. We can all do that. Remember that the Committee members genuinely want to know about your real life experience or that of your loved ones. It can be as short as you want, even a couple of paragraphs can make a difference. 

If you talk about specific research or articles in your submission, it might be useful to include some quotes that are relevant, to save the person reviewing your submission time in seeking them.

Here are some questions that can help you write your letter/submission - you don’t have to answer them all, just the one/s that apply to you personally. If this is confusing, please reach out.

• What has it been like for you/your family member experiencing Long Covid/repeated Covid infections? 

• What was your experience in getting a diagnosis, support and  treatment?

• How has Long Covid/repeated Covid infections impacted your health/the health of your family member? 

• How has Long Covid/repeated Covid infections impacted your family and/or social life?

• How has Long Covid/repeated Covid infections impacted you financially?

• How has Long Covid/repeated Covid infections impacted your ability to work/education?

• Are you at greater risk of serious illness due to age, existing health conditions, disability and/or background? How has this affected your experience with long covid?

• Have you experienced delayed medical treatment, health screening, elective surgery due to Australia’s health system being overwhelmed by Covid or due to the risk of a Covid infection whilst accessing health care?

• Do you have any feedback about what has helped you and your family prevent, obtain a diagnosis and/or treat Long Covid/repeated Covid infections?

• Do you have any facts or evidence about Long Covid and/or repeated Covid infections you’d like to include?

• Do you have any opinions or recommendations about Long Covid and/or repeated Covid infections you’d like to include? 

• What government action do you want to see to address Long Covid and/or repeated Covid infections? Feel free to list suggestions.

If these questions have caused distress, the following services can provide support:

Lifeline provides 24-hour crisis counselling, support groups and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14, text on 0477 13 11 14 (12pm to midnight AEST) or chat online.

Beyond Blue aims to increase awareness of depression and anxiety and reduce stigma. Call 1300 22 4636, 24 hours/7 days a week, chat online or email

Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free 24/7 confidential and private counseling service specifically for children and young people aged 5 – 25. Call 1800 55 1800.