Samantha Leighton is a senior government, regulatory and industry affairs leader with more than 25 years’ experience across government, customs, aviation, infrastructure, logistics and supply chain policy. She began her career in operational customs and border roles, building first-hand experience of the regulatory, security and operational environments that underpin the movement of people and goods across Australia’s border. She later held senior roles across the Australian Government, including with the Australian Border Force and Department of Home Affairs, before moving into industry leadership and advocacy. Her experience also spans the Australian Airports Association and, internationally, major airport operations and infrastructure in Saudi Arabia at King Abdulaziz International Airport. Now with the Australian Logistics Council, Samantha leads government and industry engagement across infrastructure, freight rail, fuel security, resilience, regulation, energy transition and workforce capability, bringing a rare combination of operational, policy, regulatory and international experience.