Why would you get involved in politics when you could be spending time drinking cocktails, going to the beach or hanging out with family and friends?

People view politicians and politics with suspicion, if not downright hostility. Every other day someone declares that politics is broken and reform is dead.

Most of us just rock up for a sausage and a moment at the ballot box every few years. But in that way the decisions that affect all of us become the preserve of those few who care enough, those who have vested interests, motivated extremists and insiders.

However, the decisions made in our parliaments affect everyday life. They also affect our future. So, politics matters. Deciding whether to get involved or leaving it to other people, matters too.

After almost two decades as Labor party member, Terri Butler remembers the cocktails foregone and kids' school concerts missed and argues that yes, it is worth it.