That was a key outcome of Voice for Indi’s “kitchen table conversation” process over the past few months.

Group spokesman Tony Lane said young people in Indi were hoping for a political discourse that held some relevancy.

“Concern was raised about the background political debate and particularly voices from young people saying this is not the legacy of political speak that we want for the future,” he said.

Cathy McGowan said that while it wasn’t her “initial preference” given she already had “a good career and a good life”, she was happy to put her hand up as Voice for Indi’s independent candidate.

“The long-term benefits will be that Indi will get better services,” she said.

“What I’m very keen to talk about is a vision for Indi, how we want this community to be.”

But she acknowledged her candidature was only a starting point.

“I think we have to do a lot more work before we really know what people are thinking,” she said.

“The Voice of Indi Report has certainly given us courage to go ahead.”

Member for Indi Sophie Mirabella said voters had become very disenchanted with “misnamed” independent candidates after Rob Oakeshott and Tony Windsor “delivered this nation the worst government since federation”.

All candidates will get the chance to sell their message at forums Voice for Indi intends holding across the electorate in August.

Ms McGowan said people generally felt negative about the party-political system.

“What I read very strongly in that kitchen conversations document is that people want to be engaged in politics and they want the political leaders to find a way that they can have their voice heard,” she said.

“I’m really excited about that. That’s my background. I’m a community worker, I consult with people, I listen.

“I think that’s the skill I can actually bring to this election in finding ways people can have their voices heard.”