Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the thoughts of Australians are with Catherine, the Princess of Wales, following her announcement she was receiving chemotherapy to treat cancer.
“My thoughts, and those of Australians, are with the Princess of Wales and her family following the news of her cancer diagnosis,” he posted today on X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter.
“The Princess of Wales has shown extraordinary courage with her public statement today, in which she expresses her concern for others.”
Albanese joined other world leaders in voicing their support for the wife of Prince William, the heir to the British throne.
Kate, 42, made the announcement in a personal video message released by Kensington Palace at 6pm on Friday (5am on Saturday AEDT).
She started her message by thanking the support she has had during “an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family”.
She said her abdominal surgery was not thought to be cancerous but tests later found cancer had been present.
“My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.”
Kate said it had been “a huge shock” for her and William and has taken time for her to recover from major surgery in order to start the cancer treatment.
“But, most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be OK,” she said.
Kate asked for “some time, space and privacy” while she completes her treatment.
