CANBERRA, 2025-12-23 11:17:00 — Former Australian Member of Parliament Katie Allen has died, seven months after revealing a cancer diagnosis.
The former MP and paediatrician passed away after a battle with cholangiocarcinoma, prompting tributes from across the political spectrum.
- Katie Allen, a former MP for Higgins, has died after a seven-month battle with cholangiocarcinoma.
- Political leaders from across the Australian political spectrum have expressed their condolences and praised Allen’s dedication to public service.
- Before entering politics, Allen was a paediatrician and held leadership positions in medical research and education.
Tributes poured in from across the Australian political landscape following news of Allen’s death. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote on X, “Katie believed deeply in serving her community, her nation and her fellow Australians,” adding, “She dedicated her life, her talents and her courage to making our nation a better place. May she rest in eternal peace.”
Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said she was “deeply saddened” by Allen’s passing, extending her condolences to the former MP’s family. Ley described Allen as a “trailblazer” who was passionate about women, medicine, education, the Liberal Party, and helping those in need.
Victoria’s Opposition Leader Jess Wilson said she was “heartbroken” at the news, stating Allen was “one of the strongest, most intelligent people” she had ever known and dedicated to improving the country and her local community.
Even Michelle Ananda-Rajah, the Labor politician who defeated Allen in the 2022 election for the seat of Higgins, paid her respects. Now a senator, Ananda-Rajah said Allen “served with distinction as a doctor, medical researcher and parliamentarian” and offered condolences to her family.
Allen revealed her diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma, a cancer affecting the bile ducts, seven months ago. Last month, she told The Age that her daughter, Jemima, a medical student, was the first to notice her symptoms.
Background and Context
Prior to her political career, Allen was a paediatrician and served as the division head of population health at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. She also held positions on the board of Cabrini Health, as chair of Melbourne Girls Grammar School council, and on the advisory board of several medical technology start-ups. Her last public message, shared just a week ago, praised her daughter Jemima for earning her medical degrees.
Brad Battin, Wilson’s predecessor, wrote on Instagram, “Life isn’t fair for many. And for Katie – this was not fair. But the changes she made, the people she supported and the beliefs she lived, for many gave them the opportunity they may never have had. And with her support, life was more fair. Thank you, Katie, for everything.”
Time.news based this report in part on reporting by The Age and added independent analysis and context.
