Goward pulls out of deputy leader ballot

Community Services Minister Pru Goward has pulled out of the running for the deputy leadership of the NSW Liberal Party.

"After discussions with my colleagues, including the Treasurer, Mike Baird, and the Transport Minister, Gladys Berejiklian, I have decided not to nominate for the position of Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party in this afternoon's ballot," she said in a statement on Thursday.

"This decision has not been taken lightly, however my primary focus is the unity of the NSW Liberal Party, and the delivery of a stable, competent government for the people of NSW."

Ms Goward had announced earlier in the day that she was nominating herself for the deputy role, saying she wanted to be part of a "balanced" team.

She was expected to garner support from regional MPs but was tipped to lose out to Ms Berejiklian who enjoys the strong backing of the party's left.

Health Minister Jillian Skinner earlier stepped down from the deputy leadership role, saying she was supporting Ms Berejiklian to replace her.

Ms Skinner commended Mr Baird and Ms Berejiklian for announcing their joint bid to contest the party's leadership, saying it ensured a "seamless transition".