Sandhya Reddy achieved a historic milestone as the first Indian Australian to secure a mayoral position in Sydney’s Strathfield Council. The election, held earlier this month, marked this significant moment in Australian politics.
The official announcement came from the Strathfield Council on its Facebook page, stating that Councillor Karen Pensabene was elected Mayor during their ordinary Council Meeting on September 5. In this election, Councillor Sandy (Sandhya) Reddy was elected as the Deputy Mayor.
Sandhya Reddy’s journey into the Strathfield Council began in December 2021 when she was initially elected. In the recent election, she ran as an independent candidate. As Deputy Mayor, her responsibilities will include chairing meetings and representing the mayor at various ceremonies, as outlined on the Strathfield Council’s website.
Born in Hyderabad, India, Sandhya Reddy completed her intermediate studies at Stanley College. Later, she pursued a law degree and a postgraduate degree from Osmania University. Her life took a new direction when she moved to Australia in 1991 after her marriage.
Before entering politics, Reddy worked as an immigration lawyer. Her dedication and contributions to the community were recognized when she was awarded the prestigious ‘Strathfield Citizen of the Year’ award in 2020. Among her notable achievements, she played a pivotal role in the installation of a bust commemorating former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao at the Homebush community center in Strathfield, as reported by Times of India.
