The Australian political community is in mourning following the death of former federal Liberal MP and respected doctor, Katie Allen, at the age of 59.
A Life of Service in Medicine and Politics
Dr Allen's family announced her passing in a statement posted to her Facebook account on Tuesday. She served as the Member for Higgins in Victoria from 2019 until 2022, having previously built a distinguished career as a paediatric allergist and gastroenterologist at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Her family described her as "our beloved Katie (Mum)" and said she "spent her life caring for others as a mother, doctor, professor, MP and friend." The statement confirmed she passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, having "lived a full, beautiful life, all the way to the end." She is survived by her husband, Malcolm, their four children, and one grandchild.
Private Battle with Rare Cancer
Earlier this year, Dr Allen revealed she had been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer known as cholangiocarcinoma, which affects the bile ducts. She received the diagnosis in November 2023 but chose to keep it private beyond her immediate family until after the federal election in May, where she was an unsuccessful candidate for the seat of Chisholm.
Speaking to The Age in November, she explained her husband encouraged her to continue her political campaign. She maintained privacy over her health to avoid what she termed the "sympathy vote," humorously noting that during tough moments in the campaign she would occasionally think, "If only you knew I had cancer."
Cross-Party Tributes for a 'Trailblazer'
Condolences have flowed from across the political spectrum, highlighting the deep respect she commanded. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Allen had "dedicated her life, her talents and her courage to making our nation a better place."
Opposition Leader Sussan Ley hailed her as a "trailblazer," praising her "exceptional intellect, courage and warmth." Ley added, "You only had to be in a room with her to feel her passion... She was the smartest of colleagues, the kindest of friends."
Former Prime Minister Scott Morrison, under whom she served, commended her "extraordinary talents, passion and love," stating her focus was always on helping others. Former Treasurer Josh Frydenberg remembered her as "brave, bright and beautiful… a cut above the rest," while Opposition Leader Peter Dutton called her an "amazing mother and wife, gifted doctor and passionate community advocate."
Liberal Senator James McGrath, speaking to Radio National, captured the sentiment of many colleagues: "To know Katie was to love Katie and to love life... But to underestimate Katie, you did so at your own risk. She had an iron fist hidden by a velvet glove."
Other figures paying tribute included Defence Minister Richard Marles, independent MP Allegra Spender, and former Health Minister Greg Hunt, painting a picture of a widely admired and impactful figure in Australian public life.
