Independent Queensland MP Jimmy Sullivan Found Deceased

Jimmy Sullivan, a 44-year-old independent Member of Parliament for the Queensland electorate of Stafford, was found deceased at his residence on Thursday evening. Police responded to his Stafford home unit at approximately 10:15 PM.

Investigation Details

Authorities have stated that the death is not considered suspicious.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Official Tributes

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli issued a statement on Friday morning, extending condolences to Sullivan's family. Former opposition leader Steven Miles also released a statement on behalf of the Labor party, expressing thoughts for Sullivan's family, friends, and community.

Political Career and Challenges

Sullivan was initially elected as a Labor MP in 2020. During the previous government, he served as the assistant minister for justice and veterans affairs under then-Premier Steven Miles. He is the son of former Labor MP Terry Sullivan, who also represented the Stafford electorate from 2001 to 2006.

Before entering parliament, Sullivan worked as chief of staff for former attorney general Yvette D’Ath. He was re-elected in the 2024 state election.

Following the election, an alleged domestic incident at his home led to police involvement, though no charges were filed.

He was subsequently placed on leave to address medical and legal issues and was disendorsed by Labor in May 2025, after which he served as an independent.

During his first speech as an independent, Sullivan stated he was experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder, which he attributed to the death of his first daughter, and sought healthcare.

Professional Background

Prior to his political career, Sullivan was a lawyer and a former judge’s associate in the district court of Queensland. His professional experience also included work in government and law reform in Canberra, Brisbane, and Washington D.C., where he worked in the office of Democratic Senator Ron Wyden.