Victorian Greens MP Dr Tim Read has died at the age of 64 following a public battle with metastatic cancer, prompting tributes from across the political spectrum for his contributions to public health, social reform, and community advocacy.
Dr Read, the Member for Brunswick, announced earlier this year that he would retire from the Victorian Parliament after being diagnosed with advanced cancer. During his final months in office, he remained active in public life, including campaigning against the Victorian government’s decision to close VicHealth, widely recognised as the world’s first health promotion foundation.
Victorian Greens leader Ellen Sandell led tributes to her colleague, describing Dr Read as a respected parliamentarian, doctor, scientist and community representative whose compassion and integrity earned admiration across party lines.
Sandell said Read was not only one of the most respected figures in Victorian politics but also a person remembered for his kindness, humour, and commitment to improving people’s lives. She noted that his unique combination of conviction, humility and public service made him one of the state’s most widely admired MPs.
Throughout his parliamentary career, Dr Read was a prominent advocate for public health and social reform. His work contributed to significant policy discussions and legislative changes involving pill testing, tobacco licensing, the abolition of public drunkenness laws, and efforts to eliminate congenital syphilis and HIV transmission.
He was also involved in campaigns supporting blood donation reforms for gay and bisexual men and measures aimed at improving prison conditions, including restrictions on the use of solitary confinement.
Victorian Premier Ben Carroll said he had spoken with Dr Read earlier in the week and reflected on their shared commitment to integrity and reform in public life. Carroll praised Read’s thoughtful and compassionate contributions to political debate and public policy.Sandell said Read was not only one of the most respected figures in Victorian politics but also a person remembered for his kindness, humour, and commitment to improving people’s lives. She noted that his unique combination of conviction, humility and public service made him one of the state’s most widely admired MPs.
Throughout his parliamentary career, Dr Read was a prominent advocate for public health and social reform. His work contributed to significant policy discussions and legislative changes involving pill testing, tobacco licensing, the abolition of public drunkenness laws, and efforts to eliminate congenital syphilis and HIV transmission.
He was also involved in campaigns supporting blood donation reforms for gay and bisexual men and measures aimed at improving prison conditions, including restrictions on the use of solitary confinement.
Victorian Premier Ben Carroll said he had spoken with Dr Read earlier in the week and reflected on their shared commitment to integrity and reform in public life. Carroll praised Read’s thoughtful and compassionate contributions to political debate and public policy.
Opposition Leader Jess Wilson also paid tribute, describing Dr Read as a principled and decent individual who approached public service with sincerity, compassion, and a strong sense of duty. She said his work earned respect throughout Parliament regardless of political differences.
Before entering politics, Dr Read built a distinguished career in medicine and science, bringing his healthcare experience into public policy and advocacy. His focus on evidence-based reform and preventive health initiatives remained central to his work throughout his political career.
His death marks the end of a significant chapter in Victorian politics, with colleagues, community leaders, and supporters remembering him for both his professional achievements and his commitment to improving the wellbeing of others.
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