Giving community a Voice before vote
by Mary Jo Fortuna
Following a well-supported campaign to elect an independent in the seat of Nicholls at the last federal election – which, despite falling short, significantly reduced the Coalition margin – a new grassroots movement has emerged in the Goulburn Valley. It seeks to amplify community voices across the region while advocating for independent representation in the upcoming Victorian election.
Voices for Goulburn Valley is a community-led group with a stated goal of “bringing about honest, accountable, and independent political representation” focussing particularly on the State seat of Shepparton.
The group has launched a short public survey aimed at capturing the perspectives of residents in the lead-up to the November 2026 Victorian state election. Organisers say the initiative is designed to give locals a direct say in shaping the political conversation, regardless of their background or political views.
The survey invites participants to reflect on what they value most about living in the region, identify key challenges facing their communities, and share what they expect from their elected representatives in State Parliament. According to the group, the responses will help build a clearer, community-driven picture of priorities in the electorate.
Apart from an aim to field an Independent candidate, Voices for Goulburn Valley has committed to sharing the survey results, along with other collected insights, with all candidates who nominate. The goal is to ensure that those seeking office are better informed about the concerns and aspirations of the people they hope to represent.
Organisers emphasise that the survey is anonymous and takes approximately five minutes to complete. They are encouraging widespread participation, stressing that input is welcome “whatever your political persuasion.”
As in many regional communities, the move to seek stronger representation is reflected in a growing push for more direct dialogue between voters and candidates.
Dissatisfaction with the major parties has created fertile ground for grievance-driven campaigners, such as Pauline Hanson’s One Nation, which taps into frustration over economic insecurity, cultural change, and climate issues.
On the other hand for regional voters engaged with more progressive concerns, such as environmental protection, climate action and social equality, there is a different kind of frustration. For these neither major party is sufficiently responsive to environmental and social priorities and they feel they currently have nowhere to go with their vote.
Residents interested in contributing to the survey can access it via the following link.
