Former Liberal MP Katie Allen dies of rare cancer

Dr. Katie Allen, a former federal Liberal MP, has passed away at the age of 59.

Allen represented Melbourne’s Higgins constituency from 2019 to 2022. Earlier this year, she disclosed her battle with a rare cancer.

In a heartfelt message shared on her Facebook page, her family expressed their sorrow: “With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our cherished Katie (Mum).”

Dr Katie Allen served as the member for Higgins. (Facebook)

“Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to caring for others in her roles as a mother, doctor, professor, MP, and friend,” the post continued.

“She departed peacefully, surrounded by family, having led a rich and beautiful life until the very end.”

In May, Allen had revealed her diagnosis with stage 4 cholangiocarcinoma, a cancer that had already metastasized.

Dr Katie Allen died surrounded by her family. (Facebook)
When announcing her cancer diagnosis, Allen said she was surrounded by love. (Facebook)

She spoke at the time about feeling “immense gratitude for the life I’ve led”.

“I’m surrounded by love – my family, my friends, my community. I’ve been fortunate to serve both as a doctor and in public life, always with the hope of making things better for others,” she said.