Emma Donaldson

About Emma

Emma Donaldson brings a perspective on Defence life that very few speakers can offer: she has experienced it from both sides. During her own service she worked in fast-paced Army environments, gaining firsthand insight into the expectations, tempo and values that shape military culture. Later, as the partner of a soldier who served in elite, high-tempo Army units, she lived the other side of service — raising two children through long absences, carrying the quiet worries that never make the news, and rebuilding her own identity through constant change and transition.

Her professional work is anchored in that dual experience. She currently serves as a Veteran Liaison Officer with Legacy, building strategic relationships with Defence and Ex-Service Organisations and advocating for families who continue to carry the long tail of service. Prior to that, she led national lived-experience initiatives within Open Arms, applying trauma-informed and family-centred approaches to improving wellbeing support across Australia.

Emma speaks to corporate, government, community and Defence audiences on resilience, change, identity and the forms of leadership found not in headlines but in the everyday acts of adapting, enduring and holding things together. Her openness and emotional intelligence create a genuine connection with audiences — a reminder that strength is not only found on the frontline, but also in the quiet courage of people who carry an invisible load.