Ron Allen was born in Brisbane in the State of Queensland, Australia. His father, a Christian minister, died of cancer before Ron was three years of age. His mother's second husband was a farmer from the western districts of New South Wales, and that is where Ron spent the rest of his formative years. Lockie Roberts, Ron's step-father was a man of singular faith and character, and Ron attributes much of his own spiritual development to this man.

In 1969, Ron left the farm to take up ministerial studies. He graduated with a degree in theology in 1973; was married soon after, and the year following, took up pastoral evangelism in South Queensland. After six years service in that region he transferred to the United States for further pastoral ministry in Idaho. Upon completing three years in that state he returned to Australia where he accepted the position of Pastoral Director of Good News Unlimited. Ron continued in that role for 15 years till returning to the USA in October 2000 to join GNU in Auburn California.

Ron is accompanied by Carmen, his wife. They have two children in Australia, and four Grandchildren.