Tasmanian Labor senator Catryna Bilyk diagnosed with brain tumour

The senator, based in Southern Tasmania, had two benign brain tumours surgically removed in 2008, just months after first being elected to the Senate. Since then, she has chaired a parliamentary inquiry into funding for research into cancers with low survival rates, and herself raised money through charity for brain cancer research.

On Tuesday, Senator Bilyk posted a message on Facebook, confirming her latest diagnosis.

"Prior to Christmas I was diagnosed with a slow-growing meningioma (brain tumour)," she wrote. "My treating medical professionals are monitoring its progress but at this stage it does not pose a serious threat to my health."

"I do however need to undertake some other treatment which means I am taking a short leave of absence from parliament. I look forward to returning in the near future.

"I am still available to serve my Tasmanian constituents so if you have any issues or queries I can help with please feel free to contact my office.

"I'd like to remind anyone who wishes to support brain cancer or brain tumour patients to please donate to Cure Brain Cancer.

"Thanks to everyone who has shown care and support."

Franklin Labor MHR Julie Collins wished her colleague "all the very best".

"[Senator Bilyk] has done so much to support people with brain cancer and their families since her earlier diagnosis of brain tumours," Ms Collins wrote on social media. "She is brave and I am sure she will continue her advocacy as she undertakes treatment."

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