About

James WalshI’ve spent close to two decades working across the Australian shooting industry, including with member-based organisations and industry associations. 

My work has largely focused on government policy and regulatory frameworks, developing and improving engagement between industry sectors and government, and assisting associations and organisations to operate effectively in complex and often misunderstood environments.

Focus Areas

  • Leadership of member-based associations and industry bodies
  • Governance, compliance and organisational frameworks
  • Industry advocacy and stakeholder engagement
  • Government engagement and political campaigning
  • Regulatory and legislative analysis 
  • Policy development and consultation strategy
  • Stakeholder alignment and coalition building 
  • Strategic communications and media engagement

Professional Experience

Current
Chief Executive Officer
Shooting Industry Foundation of Australia

Leadership, Business Management, Industry Representation and Advocacy

Past
President / Director
Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (Sydney Branch Inc.)

Association Leadership, Governance and Member Advocacy

Honours / Awards
2022 – Outstanding Service Award
2024 – Honorary Life Membership SSAA Sydney 

Director
Critical Strategy Pty Ltd

Management Consulting, Political Engagement and Advocacy

Managing Director
Martin Walsh Group Pty Ltd

Human Capital Consulting, Management Services and Project Resource Planning 

Committee

Current and Past Committee / Advisory

  • NSW Police Firearms Registry Consultative Council
  • Victorian Firearms Consultative Council
      –  Policy and Legislation Sub-Committee
  • NSW Ministerial Firearms Advisory 
  • Commonwealth Firearms Industry Reference Group

Licences

  • NSW Department of Primary Industries, Hunter LEAP Trainer #14071-1
  • NSW Firearms Safety Training Instructor #413355563
  • NSW Justice of the Peace #2113531