Conflict can arise from differences of opinion between groups on a shared topic. Small-scale conflicts may occur between user groups of an area, while larger-scale conflicts can emerge between companies, governments, environmentalists, and local communities over issues like development projects. Interest groups attempt to influence government decisions on issues important to their members through various methods. These include direct actions like protests and demonstrations, lobbying government ministers directly or through professional lobbyists, and petitions to demonstrate public support, though lobbying is generally seen as most effective for influencing decision-makers.

1. Conflict

2. What is Conflict? Where more than one group have a difference of opinion, interaction or relationship with the same topic.

3. Small Scale – disagreement between smaller user groups. Eg Surfers / Lifeguards 4WD / Bike riders Horse riders/ Bushwalkers Jets skies / Fishermen

4. Larger Scale: - disagreements between companies, government, environmentalists, Locals Eg Franklin River Port Philip bay Dredging Logging in Otway Ranges Wonthaggi Desalination Plant

5. A group which attempts to influence the making or implementing or administering of government decisions Interest Groups

6. Most interest groups are single-issue groups which - seek to benefit the interests of their members (trade unions, cattlemen, 4WD assoc, Save Albert Park,)

7. Interest groups are formed voluntarily and do NOT include government bodies

8. Methods Used By Interest Groups direct action - picketing/ - strikes -blockades Marches, protests demonstrations, - boycotts, go slows, bans

9. Advantages of Direct Action - free publicity in media Disadvantages usually seen by community as negative or disruptive

10. Lobbying Conducted directly by interest groups, or by employing professional lobbyists who have access to Government ministers. Lobbying not always directed primarily to those making decisions, also to those that can influence decision-makers.

11. Petitions Used to raise awareness of issues and to show levels of support for position in relation to issue. Not very affective in influencing decision-making. Members of Parliament count letters to gauge level of feeling on an issue.

12. Use of Media Usually only wealthy groups can afford paid advertising. Editorals and reports can at times be more sympathetic to groups representing commercial interests.