In a poignant announcement on Tuesday, NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car revealed she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. This marks her second battle with cancer, following a kidney cancer diagnosis in 2022. The news was met with an outpouring of support from colleagues and constituents alike, highlighting the strength and resilience that Car has consistently demonstrated throughout her political career.
She has acknowledged the support from people on a LinkedIn post ↓
A Difficult Revelation
“I’ve faced this challenge before, and I’m determined to beat it again,” Ms Car stated. “Thankfully, because the cancer was caught early, my doctors are optimistic about my recovery — and so am I.”
Ms Car confirmed she would begin immediate treatment and would take personal leave for an undetermined period. The announcement was made in a written statement and followed by a heartfelt video message on her social media platforms, where she acknowledged the seriousness of her condition while also assuring supporters that the “prognosis is good.”
“I’ve faced this challenge before, and I’m determined to beat it again,” Ms Car mentioned. [Credit: AAP/Dan Himbrechts]
Premier Chris Minns Pays Tribute
NSW Premier Chris Minns did not hold back his emotion as he addressed the media in Parramatta.
“I have to say, her focus at the moment is to focus on recovery, get her health back and then get back to work,” Minns said. “But I do want to make the point: it’s a blow to the government too.”
Minns continued, emphasising Ms Car’s role in the administration: “She’s been a rock for the administration. She’s been so clear in her reforms. We need her back on deck, but obviously, she’s got to go through the recovery first.”
Despite her illness, Minns affirmed Ms Car will remain Deputy Premier, stating: “She’s gonna dip in and out depending on her treatment and as soon as she’s ready, we’ll have her back in a heartbeat.”
Chris Minns called Prue Car “a rock,” acknowledging her cancer recovery as a personal priority and a major blow to the government. [Credit: AAP/Bianca De Marchi]
Leadership and Legacy
Ms Car, currently aged around 42 or 43, is a long-serving member of the NSW Parliament, representing the seat of Londonderry in north-western Sydney. Known for her powerful advocacy on education and her deep connection to the Western Sydney community, she has earned a reputation for clarity, compassion, and results-oriented governance.
“She’s amazing teammate, incredibly tough, very resilient,” Minns told 2GB. “I think she’d be entitled to a bit of self pity, but there’s just none of it, she’s a very resilient person.”
Her may place her at the midpoint of her career, but her influence across NSW politics is far-reaching. The public has witnessed her navigate significant health challenges without allowing them to affect her commitment to her constituents.
Pure Car [Source: LinkedIn]
Unwavering Dedication to Public Health
Beyond her duties as Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Car used her platform to deliver an important message about women’s health.
“I strongly encourage all women to stay up to date with their checks,” she urged. “Breast cancer screenings are vital for early detection and treatment, and I am extremely grateful for early detection and to the incredible people who work in the NSW Health system. They are nothing short of extraordinary.”
In an age where public leaders often shy away from discussing personal health, Car’s transparency has sparked widespread discussion around early detection and preventative healthcare. Her openness not only humanises her but also provides a platform for awareness that may ultimately save lives.
Also Read: iOS 26: Apple’s Most Ambitious Software Redesign Yet
A Temporary Step Back, Not a Farewell
During her absence, Natural Resources Minister Courtney Houssos will serve as steward of Ms Car’s portfolios in education and Western Sydney. While her return timeline is uncertain, her statement left no doubt about her intent: “I look forward to returning to the role I’ve cherished since our government took office in March 2023 — a role I absolutely love.”
Premier Minns echoed this optimism: “I know Prue well. She is a fighter, and I know she will face this challenge with the same determination and grace that she brings to everything she does.”
Public and Political Support
The community response has been overwhelming. Social media has been flooded with messages of support and admiration, many referring to Ms Car’s strength and grace under pressure.
Her career only amplifies the public’s admiration for a politician balancing immense responsibility while battling a life-threatening illness. There is no question that her legacy—both political and personal—continues to inspire.
Conclusion
Prue Car’s breast cancer diagnosis is a moment of pause for the NSW government, but it is also a testament to the power of early detection, public transparency, and leadership under adversity. As she steps away from the public eye to focus on her health, the state watches with admiration, support, and the hope of seeing her back in the halls of Parliament soon.
Whether it’s in policy reform or personal resilience, Prue Car remains a symbol of strength in New South Wales politics—a leader not defined by her trials, but by how she rises beyond them.
