NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car to return to work after cancer battle
NSW’s deputy leader has delivered a big update on her return to work after being diagnosed with breast cancer in June last year.
NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car will return to work after a seven-month break, following her recovery from breast cancer.
In June 2025, Ms Car had advised she would be taking personal leave for an “undetermined period of time” after receiving her breast cancer diagnosis.
It came three years after Ms Car had already beaten a separate kidney cancer diagnosis.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.On Sunday, Ms Car, who is the Education and Early Learning Minister and holds the Western Sydney portfolio, confirmed in a statement that she would return to work on February 2.
“I’m pleased to share that I am returning to work tomorrow to kick off the new school year for 2026,” Ms Car said.
“Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me through what’s been a difficult seven months through my breast cancer journey.
“I have been incredibly lucky to receive an amazing amount of love and support – from my husband Brad and our children, from my colleagues and from the community I am proud to represent.”
The Londonderry MP thanked cancer treatment centre Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, saying she was in “awe of what they do every single day”.
Ms Car also expressed her gratitude to NSW Premier Chris Minns for his support, as well as Forster MP Courtney Houssos, who took over Ms Car’s ministerial portfolios while she was receiving treatment.
“Thank you to NSW Premier Chris Minns. Just as he has supported so many across NSW in tough times, he has supported me and my family every step of the way through this difficult period,” Ms Car said.
“Thank you to my colleague Courtney Houssos, who stepped in and seamlessly became the Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning, and Acting Minister for Western Sydney.
“Courtney has done a phenomenal job, and her steadfast support allowed me to focus on my recovery.
“The experience of overcoming breast cancer has certainly changed me. What hasn’t changed is my unwavering commitment to deliver for the people of New South Wales, for the beautiful community I represent in Western Sydney, as well as continuing our nation-leading reform program in education across New South Wales.
“I can’t wait to get back to work for the people of NSW. To my family and friends. To my colleagues. To the wonderful doctors and nurses, thank you so much.”
Originally published as NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car to return to work after cancer battle
