"I believed that a good Government was losing its way" -- Australia's new Prime Minister, Julia Gillard.

Dear Vicky,

It's an historic day in Canberra, as Australia gets its first female Prime Minister, Julia Gillard. It's a great symbol for young girls growing up in Australia that anything is truly within their grasp.

We all hope that Prime Minister Gillard will be a new start: a bold leader on climate change, a compassionate voice on refugees, and a force for a fairer, more progressive Australia.

But we know that our politicians only ever soar as high as we demand. As Julia Gillard seeks out the trust and support of the Australian people, it's a perfect opportunity to tell her what you expect of her as Prime Minister--to show her and the Government the way forward:

www.getup.org.au/campaign/WelcomeWritLarge

The pundits and commentators have had plenty to say already on the politics, but we know its the principles that the new Government will stand for that matter most.

As the new Prime Minister and her staff check their email to see what the public is saying, make sure that your message is front and centre.

What's your message to the new PM? Talk to her about the people who need help the most: from those struggling with ill mental health, to the refugees languishing in Curtin detention centre. Tell her about the uncertain fate of our children, without action on climate change. Share with her the issue or person that is closest to your heart, in your own personal welcome message:

www.getup.org.au/campaign/WelcomeWritLarge

Importantly, in all the fracas around Canberra today - our huge mental health petition has been delivered to the new Prime Minister: the first to land on her desk.

Over 85,000 Australians have joined in the call for mental health reform in just two days - it's our fastest growing petition ever! Australian of the Year, Prof. Patrick McGorry, was in Parliament House to deliver your petition today, and all 2,413 pages of it have been personally delivered to the new Prime Minister's office.

But will she move to take action? You can make it a priority for the new PM:

www.getup.org.au/campaign/WelcomeWritLarge

As the media report on the political machinations in Canberra, we know what really matters. This election it's up to us to refocus all sides of politics on the issues that matter most, the people in greatest need and the values that make us proud to be Australians.

Thanks for all that you do,
The GetUp team

P.S. We got the ball rolling today with a message for the new PM from a GetUp member: a small plane (carbon offset, of course) flew over Parliament House today with a simple message--Aim Higher on Climate Change. What's your message?