James Alexander Barnes
President, Board of Management
James is a proud Wiradjuri man through his father’s family. He first worked in the disability sector in 1995 with the Royal Rehabilitation Centre, Sydney (RRCS). Following the Richmond Report, RRCS moved from an extended care institutional model to support group homes. James worked in the initial trial program and later in the “phase 2” program, assisting clients to learn skills of daily living to transition from institutional living to supported community living.
Since then, James has worked as both a Registered Nurse and Solicitor. He’s currently undertaking studies in medicine. He’s been a Board member since 2012.
- Bachelor of Nursing
- Bachelor of Laws
- Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice Current – Master of Business Administration/Master of Public Health
Knowledge & Expertise
- Rights and Social justice
- Corporate & Legal Governance
- Executive organisational management
Gwion Cain
Treasurer, Board of Management
For the last 10 years I have specialised in managing programs in the Cairns region and Indigenous communities within Queensland (Cape York and Torres Strait) and the Northern Territory.
My senior management experience covers a wide section of the NGO and corporate sectors. I am presently the General Manager of Selectability; a not-for-profit organisation committed to improving the mental wellbeing of people in regional Queensland and contributing to the prevention of suicide.
During this time, I have worked as a manager and trainer developing the skills and capacity of people within Indigenous communities, creating, developing and monitoring culturally responsive programs and services.
The broad spectrum of experience I have accumulated has given me the adaptable skills necessary to work effectively in remote and constantly changing environments, along with the ability to identify changing needs, opportunities and developments necessary to deliver the outcomes required in these challenging environments.
Teresa Hudson
General Member, Board of Management
Teresa is the General Manager of the Community Information Centre Townsville and has over 18 year’s experience in the Community, Early Education, and Disability Sectors which has established her qualifications and skills in Community and project development, mentoring, leadership, strategic planning, and delivering workplace training. Teresa has been the driving force behind Together Townsville that brings Business and Community sectors together to support positive pathways, partnerships and inclusivity.
The Community Information Centre has a long-standing connection to RIA as an information and referral services for the community.
Teresa is passionate about making sure everyone has access to supports and services they need especially those who are vulnerable. The role RIA plays on the community is integral to this and closely aligns to my values.
Representing RIA and its strategic growth to ensure the organisations longevity.
John Hartigan
General Member, Board of Management
John Hartigan, B.A. ( Honours) Dip Ed, JP ( Qual ) has over 30 years practical experience in Management, Human Resources, Employment Law and Career Coaching. He has additional qualifications in Work place Mediation, Executive Coaching and the application of DISC and Myers- Briggs Type Indicator. He has represented both organisations and individuals in the Fair Work Commission.
In his corporate career, John has held key roles including Head of Employee Relations, NAB,( 22,000 employee workforce ), Group Manager – BTR Automotive ( Sydney – 5,000 employee workforce ) and other senior Executive roles locally and overseas with organisations such as Rio, Exxon – Mobil and Orica.
He has also had Executive Board management experience in both the Corporate and Non- For -Profit sectors in Sydney and regional Queensland. His speciality is Board Governance.
He remains active as a self-employed Business Consultant.
Suzie Pont
Board Director, Board of Management
As the CEO of a not-for-profit organisation, I have extensive experience in executive leadership, strategic planning,and human resource management within the NFP sector. With over 20 years of experience in senior roles acrossAustralia and internationally, I have been deeply involved in advocating for social justice, workforce development,and community empowerment. My expertise spans across business management, HR, and education, ensuring thatorganisations operate efficiently while upholding strong ethical and advocacy-driven principles.established her qualifications and skills in Community and project development, mentoring, leadership, strategic planning, and delivering workplace training. Teresa has been the driving force behind Together Townsville that brings Business and Community sectors together to support positive pathways, partnerships and inclusivity.
As CEO, I have had the privilege of working closely with Rights in Action (RIA) by referring members of ourorganisation to seek their advocacy and support services. Through this engagement, I have witnessed firsthand thededication and impact of RIA in ensuring that individuals with disabilities and other vulnerable members of thecommunity receive the guidance and representation they need. My experience with RIA has reinforced the criticalrole they play in bridging gaps in support systems and advocating for human rights.
RIA’s work is invaluable to the community. Their advocacy ensures that individuals facing challenges related todisability, access, and rights are not left unheard. Through their support, many people have been empowered toaccess essential services, secure fair treatment, and challenge systemic barriers. The collaboration between RIA andorganisations like ours strengthens the broader social support network, ensuring that no one falls through thecracks. Their commitment to justice and equality has made a lasting difference in the lives of many.and closely aligns to my values.
I wholeheartedly support RIA because its mission aligns with my commitment to advocacy, empowerment, andsocial justice. As a leader in the NFP sector, I understand the critical need for strong, independent advocacy servicesto support individuals in navigating complex systems. RIA’s unwavering dedication to standing up for people’srights, ensuring their voices are heard, and providing practical assistance motivates me to support their ongoingwork. Their impact is felt by individuals and the entire community through their efforts to create a more just andequitable society.
The collaboration between RIA and organisations like ours highlights the importance of a strong advocacy networkin ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive the support they need. I deeply appreciate the work that RIA doesand look forward to continuing to work alongside them to create meaningful change. Their dedication, expertise,and passion for advocacy make them an essential part of the community.
Abhinav Jain
General Member, Board of Management
Abhinav has got 12+ years of experience in the field of Business Analysis, Data Science and Project Planning & Controls in Fortune 500 companies and state government departments like Queensland Health, CBRE, BHP, Komatsu Australia and UnitingCare Queensland. He is the Vice Chair, National ACS Data Sharing Committee, Technical Advisory Board Member at ACS and also, past Chair for QLD Emerging Professionals Committee. He is also a board member for a few organizations like Community Living Association Inc, Adopt-a-beast to name a few. He is a Master of Data Science graduate from the University of Queensland & is a Certified Community Director graduate from ICDA.
Active engagement in Strategic Planning Day at RIA in Jan 2025.
RIA is the leading organization for providing advocacy to people with disability in Northern Queensland which has made a significant difference in the community
I am motivated to be a part of RIA because of the RIA's mission to provide advocacy to people with disability which might be a life turning experience for them.
Stronger Together
Our Professional Team
CAIRNS
Address: 2/192 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt, QLD
Mail: PO Box 1041N, Cairns North, QLD 4870
Telephone: 07 4031 7377
Facsimile: 07 4031 7383
Email: [email protected]
TOWNSVILLE
Address: 1, 1-3 Barlow Street, South Townsville, QLD
Mail: PO Box 3065, Hermit Park QLD 4812
Telephone: 07 4725 2505
Email: [email protected]
OUR OPENING TIMES
Monday to Friday 9am –4:30pm