The death of Kelly Canavan has deeply affected the Australian Taxation Office and the broader public sector, where she was widely admired for her integrity, strategic leadership, and her ability to guide and inspire colleagues. Her absence leaves a significant void in the community of public service professionals.
Kelly’s work in private wealth taxation and indirect tax policy shaped critical aspects of Australia’s tax system, ensuring equitable administration and compliance while contributing to national economic growth. She was equally valued for her personal qualities—her generosity, warmth, and dedication to building cohesive and resilient teams.
Her career spanned more than a decade of senior leadership within the ATO and federal government. She served as Assistant Commissioner for Indirect Tax from 2017, before assuming the role of Assistant Commissioner for Private Wealth in 2019. A proud graduate of Monash University, she earned her Bachelor of Economics, Accounting, and Business Management, which laid the foundation for her distinguished career.
Kelly’s passing was reported in November 2025, and formal obituary notices are expected to appear in Melbourne newspapers. The ATO and her colleagues across government mourn her loss, acknowledging the enduring influence of her contributions and the example she set as both a leader and mentor.
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