Jim Barry's business background was in the graphic arts and printing, establishing his business in the mid 1960’s before retiring in 1992.

An experienced sports administrator, serving on the Board of the Australian Olympic Committee from 1993 to 2005 and on the Board of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) from 1984 to 1996. Served in the Australian Defence Force as a Reservist, enlisting in Artillery in 1951 and retiring as Commander of the Third Division in 1989.

Currently the Immediate Past President of the Defence Reserves Association, previously President from 2005 to 2013, and a founding member of The General Sir John Monash Foundation.