A Canberra Story
Leanne Castley is the Independent Member for Yerrabi and a long-time north Canberra local whose life before politics included small business, IT, project management, music and raising a family.
More Than a Political Biography
Leanne grew up in Canberra’s north and has strong connections to the community she now represents.
She has watched Gungahlin grow from open paddocks into the thriving community it is today, while raising her own family in Canberra. Her children were raised here and she is now proud to see another generation of her family growing up in the city.
Before entering politics, Leanne built a working life across many different jobs and industries. Her experience has included work as a dental assistant, office cleaner, accounts clerk, beautician and small-business owner.
She later built a career in information technology and project management, including work with the Australian Federal Police and the Department of Defence.
Those experiences — running a business, experiencing setbacks, rebuilding, working in large organisations and raising a family — shape the practical approach she brings to public life.
A lifelong connection to country music
Long before entering politics, Leanne was performing country music around Canberra.
She has more than two decades of experience as a country music performer and singer-songwriter and recorded the album Perfect Day.
Music remains one of the more personal chapters in a life that has taken her from small business and IT project management to the ACT Legislative Assembly.
Representing Yerrabi
Leanne was first elected to the ACT Legislative Assembly as a Member for Yerrabi in 2020 and was returned at the 2024 ACT election.
During her parliamentary career she has served in a range of parliamentary, leadership and committee roles.
In June 2026, Leanne became an Independent Member of the Legislative Assembly.
Her focus remains representing Yerrabi and listening to the people who live, work and raise families across the electorate.