Melbourne, Australia: In an unexpected turn of events, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announced his resignation during a press conference held on Tuesday, September 26, 2023. The resignation will take effect from 5pm tomorrow, marking the end of his nine-year tenure in the office.
The announcement came as a surprise, especially after Andrews had stated before the last year’s election that he intended to serve out his term. Addressing this, Andrews said, “It was true then and I’ve changed my mind.”
When pressed on his reasons for leaving, Andrews highlighted the intense nature of the Premier’s role and the toll it took on him personally. He mentioned, “You never want to get to a place where you resent this job, this amazing privilege and important opportunity.”
Although Andrews leaves at a time when the Victorian Labor Party holds a strong position, having won the recent state election convincingly, his tenure wasn’t without challenges. The Premier’s leadership was tested through various crises including the Black Summer bushfires, the Victorian bushfires of 2020, and notably, the COVID-19 pandemic.
Andrews did not take this occasion to enumerate his achievements, instead saying that his legacy as the Victorian Labor Premier is “for you guys to work out.” He thanked his wife Cath, his children Noah, Grace, and Joseph, as well as his colleagues and staff.
Watch Premier Dan Andrews’ press conference. Courtesy: ABC News
Speculation on Andrews’ successor has already started, with Deputy Premier Jacinta Allan being viewed as a likely candidate. However, a clear process will be laid out in the coming days by the Victorian Labor Party to choose the next leader.
Given Andrews’ significant influence and tenure in Victorian politics, his resignation undoubtedly leaves a void in the Labor Party. As the state braces for a transition, Victorians wait to see what lies ahead in this new political chapter.
