Community Independent Candidate Search
Expression of Interest- Opens April 21, 2026
Voices for Ovens Valley is inviting Expressions of Interest from people interested in standing as a community-endorsed independent candidate for the Ovens Valley electorate at the November 2026 Victorian State Election.
We believe our community deserves representation that listens first, acts with integrity and advocates strongly for the future of our region.
Through a transparent, community-led process, we are seeking to identify a candidate who can represent the diverse communities of the Ovens Valley- from Cobram to Mount Beauty.
Who should consider applying
We encourage interest from people who:
Care deeply about the future of regional communities
Value listening, respect and integrity in public leadership
Are willing to engage openly and thoughtfully with local people and issues
Live in the Ovens Valley and are registered to vote in this electoral district.
How the process works
The candidate selection process:
6. Final review and endorsement
Following the forum and review process, the Voices for Ovens Valley committee will make a final decision and endorse one candidate to stand as the Community Independent candidate for Ovens Valley.
5. Community Forum
Shortlisted applicants will take part in a community forum, where Voices for Ovens Valley members will have the opportunity to hear from and consider the potential candidates.
4. Interviews
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in an interview process.
3. Review and shortlisting
Expressions of Interest will be reviewed through a structured process, including initial probity checking and shortlisting.
2. Receive the application information pack and submission form
Once you contact us, you will be provided with:
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Further information about the applicant process
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Key dates and next steps
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A form to complete your full candidate Expression Of Interest.
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Return ( via email) the completed pack to team@voicesforovensvalley.org
1. Register your interest
To begin the process, interested applicants are asked to email Voices for Ovens Valley to express their interest.
Email : team@voicesforovensvalley.org
Our Purpose
Voices for Ovens Valley exists to strengthen democracy in our region. We are supporting a community-led process to identify, endorse and support a Community Independent candidate for the Victorian state election in 2026.
Our purpose is to support a process that:
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Puts the voices, values, and priorities of the Ovens Valley community at the centre of state decision-making
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Enables authentic, independent leadership that represents the whole electorate — not only party interests
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Builds long-term civic participation, trust, and accountability in state politics.
We believe our community deserves representation that listens first, acts with integrity, and advocates strongly for the social and economic development needs of our region.
Key Dates 2026
21 April
11 May
June (tbc)
Late June
Expression of interest opens
Expression of Interest closes
Community Forum
Voices for Ovens Valley Community Independent candidate confirmed.
November
Nov. 28, 2026
Victorian State Election
How to express interest
To declare your interest and receive the next stage information, please email:
Please include:
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Your full name
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Contact details
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A brief note outlining your interest in the process
All initial Expressions of Interest will be treated confidentially.
Questions?
If you would like a confidential conversation about the process before expressing interest, please contact:
Not applying, but want to stay involved?
You can still be part of this community-led process by:
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Joining the Voices for Ovens Valley mailing list
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Taking part in our community survey
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Following updates on social media
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Becoming a member to participate in upcoming opportunities.
Strong representation starts with an engaged community.