Addressing the chamber on Thursday afternoon, Labor MP Duncan Pegg said he would formally submit his resignation in coming weeks.

"Based on my most recent medical advice, I will no longer be able to continue to both fight cancer and also fight for my local area in the manner in which my community deserves," he told parliament.

Queensland is expected to debate voluntary assisted dying laws later this year, and Mr Pegg spoke frankly as someone who has been fighting cancer for 18 months, regularly attending clinics and speaking with patients with terminal illness.

"Let's be very clear, people with terminal illnesses don't want to die, they want to live. They fight to live every day. I personally fight to live every day," he said.

"However, if you are diagnosed terminal then ultimately you are going to face death. People with terminal illnesses won't have an option.

"I will not tell members how to vote your conscience, but before making a decision I encourage every MP in this place to make sure they speak to and listen to people with terminal illnesses and their families."

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk paid tribute to the Member for Stretton, who was first elected in 2015.

"As Duncan put it, he is among 30,000 Queenslanders diagnosed with cancer each year," she said.

Mr Palaszczuk praised his devotion to his community and dedication to education.

Opposition Leader David Crisafulli said Mr Pegg would be missed.

"Duncan Pegg is passionate about his community, his colleagues and cricket," he said.

"Duncan has fought this battle with the same tenacity as he has for his community and values."

Mr Pegg was awarded the Queensland Public Service Award from the Queensland Intercultural Society for his community work in 2017.

Prior to being elected to parliament, the 41-year-old worked as a lawyer with a focus on employment and insurance law.

His position will be filled with a by-election.

Australian Associated Press