Seat of Groom will head to a by-election following John McVeigh's resignation

Dr McVeigh has been the Liberal Member for Groom since 2016, and before that was the state LNP Member for Toowoomba South.

He was the Queensland Agriculture Minister during the Newman government and went on to hold the regional development portfolio during the Turnbull era, before a series of cabinet reshuffles.

Dr McVeigh said he submitted his resignation as the federal Member for Groom to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and in accordance with House Practice.

"This has been an exceedingly difficult decision for my family and I and it is one that has not been taken lightly," Dr McVeigh said.

"I regret what will be a short-term disruption here in the electorate of Groom; but I remain absolutely confident that the Coalition government, of which I have been honoured to be a part, will continue to lead our nation well through current challenges, and on to greater future opportunities for all Australians.

"Close friends and family are aware that my wife Anita successfully overcame significant illness and surgery during 2018.

"However, a further relapse earlier this year requiring hospitalisation in Sydney, was a great shock to our family and this has been cause for significant reflection for us over recent months.

"I want to make it very clear that we are truly blessed that her health is on the improve again and it is now my family's absolute priority to keep it that way."

Speaker of the House of Representatives Tony Smith said he was considering possible dates for the Groom by-election.

LNP Member for Condamine Pat Weir was one of the first to pay tribute to Dr McVeigh's years of political service.

Mr Weir said he had the honour of working with Dr McVeigh, both as a state and federal member, and he will be missed.

He said he wished Dr McVeigh and his wife Anita all the best for the years ahead.