NSW Deputy Premier and leader of the NSW Nationals Andrew Stoner is to retire from politics at the 2015 state election at the request of his wife Cathy, who he says is dealing with "serious health issues".
At a news conference on Wednesday, Mr Stoner said he would step down as Nationals leader on Thursday morning, after which a ballot for the Nationals leadership will be held and a new Deputy Premier elected.
However, he will remain in cabinet overseeing his many portfolios, which include trade and investment, tourism and major events, until the election next year.
Mr Stoner, the member for the mid-north coast seat of Oxley, has served in the NSW Parliament since 1999 and as Nationals leader since 2003.
He said the decision to retire from Parliament was made after a recent break with his wife Cathy and three children.
"I became aware of the seriousness of the issues with which my wife has been dealing," he said.
"She asked me to bring forward my plans for retirement and I didn't hesitate."
Mr Stoner his wife has been dealing with "some health issues and other issues".
He pointed out that last year the job meant he spent 250 days away from home.
"This has coincided with some very difficult family issues that have been faced by my wife and three children back at home," he said.
"I can no longer expect or ask my wife, Cathy, to face these issues alone".
Mr Stoner said he has "no job lined up, I'm not under any cloud. This is about putting my family first".
He said he could not see himself taking on full-time employment upon leaving politics but would consider part-time work.
Premier Mike Baird said Mr Stoner had been "a great leader of the NSW Nationals, a fine Deputy Premier and above all a passionate advocate for regional NSW".
Hospitality Minister Troy Grant, the member for Dubbo, is likely to go up against education minister Adrian Piccoli for the Nationals leadership. Each is being given a strong chance.
The decision follows the announcement by former Liberal energy minister Chris Hartcher earlier on Wednesday that he will also retire at next year's poll.
