Sep 30: Hyderabad-born lawyer Sandhya Reddy, popularly known as Sandy, has been elected Mayor of Strathfield Council in Sydney, Australia.

Reddy, who was born and raised in Hyderabad, completed her education in the city before moving to Australia in 2005. She has lived in Australia since then and has been involved in community and public service.

Her public service journey began with the State Emergency Service in 2014. She was elected as an independent councillor to Strathfield Council in 2021 and served as Deputy Mayor in 2023.

Her election as Mayor has been welcomed by members of the Indian community in Australia, who described the development as significant for multicultural representation and community participation.

Reddy’s journey from Hyderabad to local government leadership in Sydney highlights the contribution of Indian-origin professionals to civic and community life in Australia.

Members of the Indian community have also highlighted the significance of her achievement as an Indian-born woman taking up a senior local government position in the country.