About Linda Reynolds
Biography
Linda Reynolds was first sworn in as an Australian Senator in 2014. Over her parliamentary career, she held key Cabinet Minister roles, including portfolios such as Government Services, the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Defence and Defence Industry, Emergency Management, and North Queensland Recovery. She also served as Assistant Minister for Home Affairs, with responsibilities for Customs and Emergency Management.
During her tenure in the Senate, Linda contributed significantly through her leadership and committee work. She chaired the Senate Standing Committee of Senators’ Interests, and served as Deputy Chair on the Senate Standing Committee on Scrutiny of Delegated Legislation and the Joint Standing Committee on Public Accounts and Audit. She was also a valued member of the Joint Standing Committees on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade, and Electoral Matters.
Before her parliamentary service, Linda dedicated 29 years to the Australian Army Reserves, holding a variety of regimental and staff roles, including serving as the Adjutant General of the Army—the Chief of Army’s principal governance advisor. She made history as the first woman in the Army Reserves to attain the rank of Brigadier and was honored with the Conspicuous Service Cross. She holds a Master of Arts in Strategic Studies and is a graduate of the Centre for Defence and Strategic Studies.
Her experience also extends to more than two decades in national politics, supporting Members of Parliament and serving as Deputy Federal Director of the Liberal Party of Australia, alongside valuable corporate experience in the Defence Industry.
Linda has been a passionate advocate on the global stage against slavery and human trafficking. She has represented the Australian Parliament at the Inter-Parliamentary Union and contributed as an Australian member of the Interparliamentary Taskforce on Human Trafficking based in Washington, D.C., where she chaired its global Working Group.
She retired from the Senate at the end of her term on 30 June 2025. Linda leaves behind a legacy of dedicated public service, leadership, and commitment to both national and international causes.