Former Western Australian and Victorian parliamentarian Peter Katsambanis has died at the age of 60, prompting tributes from across the Liberal Party and the Greek Australian community.
Katsambanis was remembered as a dedicated public servant and one of the Liberal Party’s “fiercest and finest” political warriors.
His wife, Karalee Katsambanis, said the family was devastated by his death and described him as a deeply loved and respected man.
“He was a great man: loved, adored, treasured and respected by so many people,” she wrote in a tribute shared on social media.
“As his wife, I’ve lost my soulmate and love of my life and I thank everyone for all their support.”
She also expressed her gratitude to the heart transplant team at Melbourne’s Alfred Hospital, who had been caring for her husband.
A career spanning two states
Katsambanis served in the Victorian Parliament from 1996 to 2002 before later entering Western Australian politics.
He represented the Liberal Party in the WA Parliament from 2013 to 2021, initially serving in the Legislative Council before moving to the Legislative Assembly as the member for Hillarys.
Katsambanis held several opposition responsibilities, including portfolios covering police, road safety, justice and industrial relations.
He was defeated by Labor candidate Caitlin Collins at the 2021 Western Australian election, as Labor secured a landslide victory across the state.
Tributes from the Liberal Party
Liberal Party of WA state director Simon Morgan described Katsambanis as an exceptional contributor to the party throughout his political career.
“Peter Katsambanis was the fiercest and finest of warriors for the Liberal cause as a student, a trusted adviser and as a member of parliament in both Victoria and Western Australia,” Morgan said.
“Our party is poorer for his loss and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to Karalee and to all of Peter’s children at this sad time.”
WA Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas also paid tribute, highlighting Katsambanis’ commitment to public service.
“Service always came first for Peter,” Zempilas said.
“He was such a committed representative and he occupies a rare place in Australian politics, having served in the Victorian parliament and in both houses of the parliament of Western Australia.”
Zempilas also recognised Katsambanis’ significant contribution to the Greek Australian community.
Beyond politics, Katsambanis played an active role in Australia’s Hellenic community.
He served as president of the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association from 2017 to 2021 and was a vice president of the Hellenic Community of Western Australia.
His death has been met with sadness among political colleagues, friends and members of the Greek Australian community.
Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in the coming days. The funeral is expected to be held in Melbourne.
