Born in the rural town of Balranald, Mr Pappin has spent most of his life living and working within the Farrer electorate.
He said he was motivated to run to give residents “an option that includes an ‘independent independent’ who knows the district and its issues”.
Mr Pappin brings experience in politics, having represented Australia at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation on World Heritage matters.
He also played a role in establishing the Living Murray initiative in the Murray-Darling Basin.
His campaign will focus on key issues, including water management, national security and the cost-of-living crisis.
Mr Pappin is set to launch his campaign in Wentworth over the Easter weekend, before heading to Hay, Hillston, Rankin Springs, Griffith, Narrandera, Urana, Albury, Corowa, Berrigan, Moama, Barham and Tooleybuc.