Ms Goward, who was first elected to parliament in 2007, announced on Wednesday morning that she will not recontest her seat of in March, 

She said it was a difficult decision made “in the best interest of my family.

“I have decided to retire at the state election in March 2019. Until then I will continue to work hard for this great government and my wonderful constituents,” she said.

“I thank the people of Goulburn who I have served for almost 12 years. Our region has been transformed over the past eight years in government and I am very proud of that.”

Premier Gladys Berejiklian thanked Pru Goward for her service following the announcement,  that she will not stand at the next election due to family reasons.

“I know how difficult this decision has been for Pru and completely appreciate her need to put family first at this difficult time,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“She will leave a legacy of achievement for which she can be enormously proud. Pru doesn’t do anything by halves and I know she will continue to work as hard as ever for the people of NSW and for her electorate until March 2019. I wish her and her family the best for the future.”

Ms Goward has been member for Goulburn for 12 years, serving in cabinet in a variety of portfolios including family and community services, social housing, planning, medical research, mental health, assistant health, women and was the state’s first prevention of domestic violence and sexual assault minister.

She is currently the minister for family and community services, social housing and for the prevention of domestic violence and sexual assault.

“My portfolios have involved complex social issues. They often do not get the media attention they deserve but are some of the most critical in government,” Ms Goward said.

“I thank my ministerial staff, I also thank my Goulburn staff. Together we have achieved so much good for the people of NSW. It has been quite a journey and we have done it as a strong team.”