- Victoria MP Fiona Richardson has tragically passed from her battle with cancer
- Richardson, 50, was diagnosed with multiple tumours and died Wednesday
- She announced Tuesday she was going to walk away from duties next year
- Family Violence Prevention minister took time off to fight breast cancer in 2013
Victorian MP Fiona Richardson has tragically passed away a day after she announced she was quitting parliament next year to focus on her health.
Ms Richardson announced on Tuesday she was taking more time off after being diagnosed with multiple tumours, but passed away on Wednesday night.
Ms Richardson, 50, was diagnosed with a serious illness before the winter break and gave notice yesterday that she would be taking leave from her parliamentary duties.
She successfully battled cancer in 2013 and returned to parliament to become Victoria’s first minister for the prevention of family violence.
Victorian MP Fiona Richardson has tragically passed away a day after she announced she was quitting parliament next year to focus on her health
Ms Richardson announced on Tuesday she was taking more time off after being diagnosed with multiple tumours, but she passed away on Wednesday night
Ms Richardson, 50, was diagnosed with a serious illness before the winter break and gave notice yesterday that she would be taking leave from her parliamentary duties
‘I have been diagnosed with multiple tumours for which I am receiving treatment,’ Ms Richardson said yesterday.
‘I intended to return to work part time next week, however my recovery is not going the way I had planned.
‘I am grateful that the premier has agreed to an extended period of leave from my portfolio to enable me to concentrate of my health.’
Ms Richardson posted her regards on her social media accounts, thanking everyone for their support during the difficult time.
‘Thank you to everyone for your kind words of encouragement and support,’ she posted.
Ms Richardson said she would be taking time off work after her health didn’t go to plan
The Family Violence Prevention Minister (pictured) first took time off from politics in 2013 to fight breast cancer
‘While I haven’t been able to respond to you each individually, I think you for your well wishes while I focus on recovery.’
Premier Daniel Andrews said Ms Richardson had been an ‘unwavering advocate’ against family violence.
‘Our thoughts and prayers are with Fiona and her family and we will do everything we can to support her during this difficult time,’ he said in a statement.