About us.
About Voices for Gippsland
Voices for Gippsland is a grassroots, community-led organisation dedicated to empowering the people of Gippsland through participatory democracy and ethical leadership. We believe every voice matters. Our mission is to ensure decisions affecting our region—from renewable energy transitions to cultural preservation—are shaped by those who call Gippsland home.
What We Stand For
Inclusivity: We champion equitable opportunities for all, including First Nations communities, multicultural groups, seniors, and marginalised voices.
Sustainability: We advocate for environmental stewardship that balances renewable energy development with the protection of Gippsland’s natural beauty, farmland, and sacred Indigenous sites.
Transparency: We reject funding from fossil fuel corporations, foreign entities, or special interests, ensuring our advocacy remains independent and community-funded.
Collaboration: We foster partnerships with local groups, government, and First Nations leaders to drive solutions grounded in fairness and cultural respect.
Key Goals
Amplify Local Priorities: Host structured dialogues and digital platforms to ensure decision-makers hear community concerns, such as housing pressures, landowner rights, and renewable energy impacts.
Protect Cultural Heritage: Partner with Gunaikurnai communities to embed Indigenous leadership in planning processes and safeguard sacred sites.
Build Equitable Futures: Ensure disadvantaged groups benefit from renewable energy initiatives, advocate for accessible consultations, and counter misinformation through education.
Ethical Governance: Promote accountability by exposing undue corporate influence, training citizen journalists, and mandating transparent project approvals.
Governed by the Community, for the Community
As a not-for-profit [yet to become] incorporated association, we are led by a democratically elected committee and powered by local supporters. Our constitution ensures financial integrity, conflict-free operations, and a commitment to leaving no voice behind.
Join Us
Together, we’re building a Gippsland where integrity, sustainability, and grassroots action drive a thriving future for all.
“What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal.”
~ Albert Pike
Voices for Gippsland operates independently of any political party. We are and will always remain non-partisan.
We categorically reject funding from fossil fuel corporations, foreign entities, special interest groups, or any organisation whose agendas conflict with our mission. Neither I nor Voices for Gippsland hold memberships in organisations that contradict our values or compromise our advocacy. To safeguard grassroots integrity, we do not—and will never—accept donations, sponsorships, or partnerships that undermine ethical, community-driven action. Our work is powered solely by local supporters who share our vision for a sustainable, equitable Gippsland.
Should any credible information suggesting otherwise exist, I welcome its immediate disclosure so it may be addressed openly and constructively. Unfortunately, my commitment to ethical, community-driven advocacy has drawn criticism from those whose interests are challenged by this work.
While I previously considered pursuing an independent candidacy, upon reflection, I believe my strengths lie in grassroots activism—a space where I can focus on empowering Gippslanders to advocate for their rights and amplify their voices on issues that matter to them.
Let me be clear: Serious concerns have been raised regarding the conduct of some local groups in Gippsland, particularly around transparency and accountability. Should these practices persist, Voices for Gippsland will have no choice but to formally escalate these matters to the appropriate regulatory bodies, including Consumer Affairs Victoria, to ensure the integrity of our collective efforts. Voices for Gippsland’s focus remains steadfast on serving Gippsland with integrity, fostering dialogue, and ensuring that every voice is heard.
If you wish to raise any concerns, you may contact me via info@voicesforgippsland.com.
James-Anthony “J-A” Giorlando, MICDA