NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car to Return to Work After Second Cancer Battle
Sydney, 1 February 2026 – New South Wales Deputy Premier Prue Car has announced she will return to state parliament tomorrow, marking the end of a seven-month personal leave following her successful battle against breast cancer for the second time.
Return Timed for New School Year
The 43-year-old Minister for Education and Early Learning confirmed her return on Sunday 1 February, stating she would be back at work on Monday 2 February – coinciding with the start of the 2026 school year. Premier Chris Minns shared the news on social media, writing: “This morning Deputy Premier and Education Minister Prue Car announced that she’s back on board from tomorrow – just in time for the new school year.” Ms Car, who also holds the Western Sydney portfolio, went on leave in June 2025 after publicly revealing her diagnosis.
A Transformative Health Battle
In interviews surrounding her announcement, Ms Car described her second cancer fight as an experience that had “changed” her. The mother and Member for Londonderry stated the journey had taught her “how to fight” and made her stronger. She characterised herself as “incredibly lucky” to have come through the treatment. This was her second major health battle in three years, having previously overcome cancer.
Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Role | NSW Deputy Premier, Minister for Education & Early Learning, Minister for Western Sydney |
| Electorate | Member for Londonderry |
| Return Date | Monday 2 February 2026 |
| Leave Commenced | June 2025 (7 months) |
| Health Update | Has beaten breast cancer for the second time |
| Background | Former Penrith City councillor and national communications manager at MS Australia |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Prue Car go on leave?
Ms Car commenced personal leave in June 2025 after announcing she had been diagnosed with breast cancer.
What portfolios does Prue Car hold?
She is the Deputy Premier of New South Wales, the Minister for Education and Early Learning, and the Minister for Western Sydney.
Has Prue Car had cancer before?
Yes. This was her second battle with cancer in three years, having previously beaten the disease.