James Gooden Announces Candidacy for Riverina
James Gooden, a proud grazier and lifelong member of the Riverina, has officially announced his candidacy for the Riverina electorate as an independent for the next Federal election. With a strong connection to the region and a proven track record of leadership, James is committed to representing the diverse voices and challenges of the Riverina in a way that delivers practical solutions and genuine results.
“This isn’t just about politics for me,” said Mr. Gooden. “It’s about ensuring the people of the Riverina have a leader who listens to their concerns and advocates for sensible, well-thought-out decisions. From cost-of-living pressures, community infrastructure, major projects and land use, we need leadership that’s grounded in understanding and shaped by community input.”
James’s campaign slogan, “Change for Good,” represents his commitment to creating a future where the needs of all Riverina communities—rural, regional, and urban—are addressed with fairness and accountability.
Born and raised on a grazing and farming property along Yanko Creek in the western Riverina, James’s work ethic was forged by family circumstances that required him to take on significant responsibilities at a young age. Now based in the eastern Riverina, James and his wife, Helen—a proud Junee local—run a successful farming and grazing business. Together, they have instilled the values of hard work, community engagement, and care for the land in their three children— Kate, John, and Alex.
While James’s roots are in agriculture, his vision extends far beyond the farm gate. “This region is more than farming—it’s small business owners, families managing household budgets, and communities wanting better infrastructure and opportunities. I want to represent all of you and work with you to address the challenges we face together,” he said.
James is also a founding member and Chair of the Riverina Sustainable Food Alliance (RSFA), a nationally recognised initiative that has successfully advocated for responsible decisionmaking for our community. Under James’s leadership, the RSFA has built a reputation as a trusted voice among business leaders, government officials, and ministers at both the Federal and State levels, effectively representing diverse perspectives. By uniting stakeholders to achieve balanced solutions to complex challenges, James has demonstrated his ability to drive meaningful change—a strength he plans to bring to his role as an independent representative for the Riverina.
In addition to his leadership with the RSFA, James is an active member of NSW Farmers and a dedicated volunteer with the local Rural Fire Brigade. These roles reflect his deep commitment to the well-being and future of the entire region.
“I’m running to ensure the voices of the Riverina are heard, no matter where you live or what challenges you’re facing,” James said. “I’ll work tirelessly to represent the interests of all Riverina residents. Together, we can create real change for a brighter, more affordable future.”
James Gooden’s candidacy offers a new direction for the Riverina—one rooted in thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and delivering outcomes for all communities across the electorate.
Media Enquiries - Cate Povey | 0402 118 958
James Gooden – Independent Candidate for the Riverina
Authorised by J. Gooden. Brawlin Road, Cootamundra, NSW
