Born in Tasmania, Reynolds has had a distinguished career of public service. Since the early 1960s, Reynolds has been active in the areas of Aboriginal rights, as a member of the Townsville arm of Save Our Sons. By the 1970s, Reynolds was also active in the feminist movement and issues such as improved education. Between 1983 and 1999, Reynolds represented Queensland in the federal Senate (ALP), serving on numerous committees, including: Chair Federal Government Status of Women Policy Committee 1995-; Federal Government representative on the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation 1992-1995; Minister assisting PM on Status of Women 1988-1990; Minister for Local Government 1987-1990; Councillor Townsville City Council 1979-1983. After leaving parliament she accepted a post at the School of Political Science and International Studies at the University of Queensland 1960-1982. She has been married to Professor Henry Reynolds since 1963.