Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issues touching message to King Charles after cancer diagnosis

Australian leaders have given their best wishes to King Charles after his cancer diagnosis.

Anthony Albanese has wished King Charles a speedy recovery after his cancer diagnosis, extending an invitation to the monarch to visit Australia.

The Prime Minister said the thoughts of all Australians were with King Charles and his family after it was revealed the royal was diagnosed with cancer early Tuesday morning local time.

“We wish him very much a speedy recovery,” Mr Albanese said.

“I will be sending a message to the palace this morning and we hope that King Charles has a speedy recovery and a return to his duties as soon as possible.”

King Charles has been diagnosed with cancer. Picture: Yoan Valat / AFP

King Charles and Queen Camilla were due to travel to Australia in October for their first visit since taking to the throne.

Mr Albanese said he “sincerely” hoped the monarch and his queen could make the trip.

“We want to see His Majesty return to full duties as soon as possible,” he said.

“We, of course, look forward to the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting that will be held in our region.

“And of course, we have invited King Charles to visit Australia and we sincerely hope that can occur.”

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Buckingham Palace said a “separate issue of concern was noted” after the 75-year-old monarch underwent a prostate operation in January.

It was later revealed that the tests identified “a form of cancer”.

Australians know that His Majesty King Charles has always reached out to us in our country's toughest moments, showing kindness and care for those doing it tough.

All of us are thinking of him and his family in this very hard time.

We wish him well for a speedy recovery.

— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) February 5, 2024

The palace did not disclose what form of cancer Charles has, but a palace official said it was not prostate cancer.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton also wished King Charles well in his recovery.

Peter Dutton urged Australians to get a check-up. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman

“I’m sure all Australians will join me in saying we wish every best wish to King Charles,” the Opposition Leader said.

“He’s a stoic individual but I think … there’s a message that the Palace wants to get out as well and every Australian should hear that message, that is particularly for men who are reluctant to go to the doctor, make sure you go and get a check-up because early detection is important.

“We send every good wish to King Charles and his family.”

Heartfelt wishes to His Majesty King Charles III as he undergoes his treatment. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family at this time. Long live the King.

— Peter Dutton (@PeterDutton_MP) February 5, 2024

The palace confirmed King Charles would postpone public-facing duties. Picture: Christophe Archambaul/AFP

Earlier, Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie said news of King Charles’ cancer diagnosis was “devastating”.  

“I know, right across the country, everyone will be sending him and his family their best wishes as he proceeds through the treatment,” she told the Today show.

Independent MP Monique Ryan said the entire country was concerned for the King.

“I’m sure the whole country is concerned for him, wishes him the best and sends love and support to his family as well at what would be a really difficult time,” Dr Ryan said.

About 165,000 Australians were diagnosed with cancer in 2023, according to national health data.

Two in every five Australians will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85.

The Australian Republic Movement issued a statement saying it would be an “incredibly challenging and private time for any family”

“I thank the King for raising public awareness and hope it encourages more people to get regular check-ups,” chief executive Isaac Jeffrey said.

“It is an insidious disease that directly or indirectly affects us all.”

Originally published as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issues touching message to King Charles after cancer diagnosis