14 hours Ago By Carla Mascarenhas
Former Victorian federal MP Dr Katie Allen is battling a rare cancer called cholangiocarcinoma. Login or signup to continue reading Dr Allen made the announcement on social media on May 8, just days after unsuccessfully contesting the seat of Chisholm in the federal election . "It's a stage four diagnosis, and has already spread," she said.
"I know there are difficult days ahead, but I'm facing this with clarity and determination." As a former doctor and medical researcher, Dr Allen said she had seen her patients face cancer with "courage, dignity and strength in the face of adversity" and she would be drawing on their example. "Now I face a different challenge," she said.
"But I will meet it with the same qualities that have always guided me; practical resolve, quiet strength and above all hope." Politicians from across the spectrum expressed well wishes. "Really sorry to hear, Katie," Kooyong MP Dr Monique Ryan said.
"Wishing you strength and peace." Menzies MP Keith Wholahan, who lost his seat at the 2025 federal election, said Dr Allen was "deeply loved and admired". "We are here for you and your family," he said.
Greens candidate for Wills, Samantha Ratnam, said she was "thinking of you and your family, Katie". Cholangiocarcinoma is a type of cancer that forms in the bile ducts that connect a person's liver to their gallbladder and small intestine. Dr Allen was the member for Higgins between 1999-2022 .
The seat was abolished before the federal election. Carla Mascarenhas is the NSW correspondent covering breaking news, state politics and investigations. She is based in Sydney.
Contact her on [email protected].
au Carla Mascarenhas is the NSW correspondent covering breaking news, state politics and investigations. She is based in Sydney. Contact her on carla.
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