Tributes flow in for Councillor Sinead Francis-Coan who passed away on Monday

24 June 2025

newy.com.au – The Newcastle community is mourning the sudden and unexpected loss of Councillor Sinead Francis-Coan, who passed away aged 40. Councillor Francis-Coan, who represented Ward 3 for the City of Newcastle, was recognised for her passionate advocacy of social justice, equity, and community empowerment. In recognition of her dedicated service, City Hall has lowered its flags to half-mast in her honour.

Before bring elected to Council, Councillor Francis-Coan forged a career in leisure and tourism studies, where she actively promoted community engagement through cultural initiatives and public events. A qualified mediator, she used her skills to build bridges across diverse groups. On top of this, her role as an organiser for the National Tertiary Education Union at the University of Newcastle saw her advocate for improved staff conditions, fairer workplace policies, and equity in education.

Her election to Council marked a proud milestone, and in her first address, she reflected on her Irish heritage and paid heartfelt tribute to her late father, Ollie, illustrating her deep sense of family and community roots.

Lord Mayor Dr Ross Kerridge praised Councillor Francis-Coan for her optimism, honesty, and genuine warmth, he said that she quickly adapted to her role, addressing local issues and engaging enthusiastically with residents. Newcastle Council CEO Jeremy Bath described her as a compassionate and energetic councillor whose work benefited young people, marginalised communities, and individuals living with disabilities through her involvement with the Youth Council, Community and Culture, and Access Inclusion committees.

Despite recently feeling unwell, Councillor Francis-Coan continued performing her public duties, attending community events such as Refugee Week, advocating for Newcastle’s nighttime economy, and meeting with constituents.

Tributes from across the political and community spectrum highlight her impact. Former Greens Councillor Michael Osborne described her dedication and tireless community activism as inspirational. Newcastle Labor Councillors recognised her principled approach and her longstanding connections with local activist and union movements.

State MP Tim Crakanthorp expressed profound sadness, remembering her kindness, principled stance, and shared experiences at local community rallies. Councillor Mark Brooker spoke warmly of their productive working relationship, emphasising her loss as deeply felt throughout the Council and the city.

MP Sonia Hornery acknowledged Councillor Francis-Coan’s respectful and warm-hearted approach, noting that despite political differences, she was universally respected for her sincerity and ability to advocate passionately yet respectfully.

Councillor Francis-Coan leaves behind her mother Lyndall and sisters Roisin and Ciara, who have requested privacy as they grieve and await the Coroner’s findings.

Newcstle Greens released statement:

With incredible deep sorrow and shock, the Newcastle Greens acknowledge the sudden and unexpected death of Sinead Francis-Coan, City of Newcastle Councillor for Ward 3. Sinead was a fierce community campaigner, organiser, friend and colleague.

Sinead was a dedicated and committed councillor whose selfless work for the broader community was unstinting. Sinead’s integrity and service has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working with her. This tragic loss is felt deeply by our members and wider party, and we extend our deepest sympathies to Sinead’s family and loved ones. We stand together with all who will honour Sinead’s legacy and memory.

Labor Councillors released a statement:

“Sinead brought enormous love, passion and integrity to her role as a Councillor for Ward 3. Though her time on Council was short, her impact will be lasting. Each of us was privileged to have known Sinead for many years before she joined Council, through her active involvement across Newcastle’s community and activist networks, and we each knew her to be a strong advocate for social justice, the environment, and the voices of young people in our city. We are proud to have called her a friend.

Sinead’s contributions extended far beyond the Council chamber. She was a proud unionist, active in the National Tertiary Education Union and a dedicated member of the Newcastle Trades Hall Women’s Committee. She worked closely with community groups and not-for-profits across Newcastle and the Hunter, consistently championing the needs of those whose voices are too often unheard.

Above all, Sinead was kind, principled and full of purpose. Her contributions in the Council Chamber were thoughtful and grounded in care for the communities she represented.

Local community groups and constituents have also expressed their grief, recalling Councillor Francis-Coan’s hands-on involvement in numerous local initiatives, particularly her advocacy for environmental sustainability, affordable housing, and the empowerment of disadvantaged groups.

Above all, Sinead was kind, principled and full of purpose. Her contributions in the Council Chamber were thoughtful and grounded in care for the communities she represented.

On behalf of Newcastle Labor, we extend our deepest condolences to Sinead’s family, friends, and colleagues in the Greens. Her loss will be felt across our city and by all who had the privilege to work alongside her.