Former Vic Labor MP Jane Garrett dies at 49 after cancer battle

Daniel Andrews has offered the family of the former Vic Labor minister a state funeral to mark her ‘significant contribution’ to the state.

Jane Garrett (R) with Australian Council of Trade Unions president Ged Kearney. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

Former Victorian Labor minister Jane Garrett has died aged 49 following a long battle with breast cancer, after a distinguished political career.

Premier Daniel Andrews shared his condolences within hours of her passing and offered Ms Garrett’s family a state funeral.

On behalf of the Victorian Government and the Parliamentary Labor Party, I offer our deep condolences to Jane’s family, friends and colleagues – and all those who knew and loved her.

Vale Jane Garrett. pic.twitter.com/PLpwRmXAkf

— Dan Andrews (@DanielAndrewsMP) July 2, 2022

Ms Garrett entered parliament as the member for Brunswick in 2010 and oversaw the consumer affairs, gaming and liquor regulation and emergency services portfolios when Labor was elected to government in 2014.

In 2018, Ms Garrett was elected as Member for Eastern Victoria and appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Jobs.

She served in these roles until her illness forced her to take a leave of absence.

Mr Andrews on Saturday evening said he was saddened to learn of Ms Garrett’s passing.

“On behalf of the Victorian Government and the Parliamentary Labor Party, I offer our deep condolences to Jane’s family, friends and colleagues – and all those who knew and loved her,” Mr Andrews said.

“I cannot imagine the grief her family, particularly her three children, must be feeling at this incredibly difficult time – my thoughts are with them.

“Jane was a passionate advocate for the rights of working people and spent her career fighting for safer, secure jobs. Her commitment to education, equality and social justice for all was clear.

“I hope Jane’s family accept a state funeral as a fitting way to mark her significant contribution to Victoria.

“Vale Jane Garrett.”

Ms Garrett leaves behind three children, Molly, 19, Sasha, 15, and Max, 10.