Background
Rea was born in Bundaberg, Queensland.
Rea was born in Bundaberg, Queensland.
Rea graduated from school in Wynnum, and later studied at the for a Bachelor of Arts majoring in English, History and Philosophy.
She was an Australian Labor Party member of the Australian House of Representatives from 2007 to 2010, representing the Division of Bonner in Queensland. Before gaining elected office, Rea worked for a Queensland State Minister. She was then elected as a Brisbane City councillor, representing the ward of Ekibin from 1991 to 1994 and the ward of Holland Park from 1997 to 2007.
Rea lost the seat to Ross Vasta at the 2010 election.
lieutenant was one of a number of Labor gains at that election which propelled the party from opposition to government.