NSW Senator Jim Molan diagnosed with ‘aggressive’ form of cancer

The NSW senator said he would step back from politics for further testing and treatment after being diagnosed with cancer last week.

NSW Senator Jim Molan has announced that he is stepping back from politics after receiving a cancer diagnosis.

The 70-year-old senator and former Australian Army major general made the announcement Monday, releasing a statement saying, “last week I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of a cancer.”

“I will be taking leave from the Senate for further testing to confirm the prognosis, and to commence treatment.”

NSW Senator Jim Molan will step back from politics after being diagnosed with cancer. Picture: Jonathan Ng

While Mr Molan did not identify the sort of cancer behind the diagnosis, he said that “I have many reasons to be positive.”

“I have never been afraid to fight the battles that need fighting, and this is no exception.”

“I thank you for your support, and we ask for your privacy at this time,” he said.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison reached out to Mr Molan on social media in a heartfelt message which read in part, “Jen and I wish you and your family all the best for your treatment and recovery.”

“You’re an incredible person, Jim and we will all be here to support you through this challenging time ahead.”

Other parliamentarians from both sides of the aisle were also quick to offer their support.

“Very sorry to hear this news, Jim”, Labor Senator and shadow spokesman on foreign affairs tweeted.

“Strength and best wishes to you and yours.”

Victorian Nationals MP Darren Chester wrote soon after the news broke, “Wishing my good friend and respected colleague all the best as he deals with this latest challenge. Jim is a strong and determined advocate for all those who serve, and their families. Thank you for your service. Get well soon Senator.”

Mr Molan first entered the Senate for the first time in 2017, filling the vacancy that emerged when Nationals Senator Fiona Nash was ruled ineligible to serve due to dual citizenship issues.

At the 2019 federal election, Mr Molan was placed on an “unwinnable” fourth position on the Coalition’s Senate ticket, which led to an independent campaign urging voters to vote directly for Molan rather than follow the advice of the party’s how-to-vote cards.

While he received more than 132,000 personal first preference votes, it was not enough to get him over the line.

Mr Molan instead returned to the Senate in November 2019, to fill a casual vacancy left by Arthur Sinodinos.

In his statement, Mr Molan added that he would be keeping his electorate office open and operational, and that “my team will continue to work hard alongside my colleagues in the Morrison Government on the issues that matter.”