A visit to Australia by King Charles is in doubt following his “difficult” cancer diagnosis.

Buckingham Palace on Tuesday revealed the monarch, 75, had begun regular treatments for cancer and would postpone public duties.

The King was expected to tour Australia in late 2024, as part of a broader trip to the region for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in October in Samoa.

Anthony Albanese said the news of the diagnosis was “difficult,” and he had written to the palace to convey the nation’s well wishes.

Speaking in parliament, the prime minister said the King had always reached out to Australia when the country needed him.

“Australia has always had a special place in his affections,” Mr Albanese said.

“He knows that the feeling is very much mutual.

“We wish him well for a speedy recovery and we very much look forward to him being able to take up our invitation to make his first visit to Australia as King.”

Following the announcement of the diagnosis, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton urged men not to delay a visit to the doctor.

“We wish every best wish to King Charles … he’s a stoic individual,” he said.

“There’s a message the palace wants to get out as well … make sure you go and have a check-up because early detection is important.”

The Australian Monarchist League said the best wishes of all Australians would be with the King and his family.

“It will be a real pity for all those who were looking forward to that very exciting prospect of having the King of Australia come and be here with us,” Chairman Eric Abetz told ABC radio.

“Let’s see how this develops and let’s hope the medical team for King Charles can deal with this matter as quickly as possible.”

The palace hasn’t confirmed the type of cancer the King has, only that it was found during his recent treatment for an enlarged prostate.