Daniel Andrews, the 48th premier of Victoria, very recently declared that he will be resigning from the prestigious position. He held office as the leader of the Victorian branch of the Australian Labor Party from 2010. He served as the Premier of Victoria since December 4, 2014.
Andrews led his party to an increased majority of ten seats in the lower house during the 2018 elections and again helped achieve a landslide victory in the 2022 elections. He held his position through the 2019-20 Australian bushfire as well as the COVID-19 pandemic.
He is a prominent politician, under whose watchful eyes the ‘Big Build’ infrastructure projects, rental law reforms, safe injection rooms, voluntary assisted death, compensation reform for victims of institutionalized child-sex abuse, and introduction of exclusion zones for protests outside abortion clinics took place.
So, when the renowned politician announced his retirement, it came as a shock to many, so here we are to explain why Andrews is stepping down.
Why Did Dan Andrews Resign as Victorian Premier?
Daniel Andrews announced that he would step down as the Victorian premier on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, after serving almost nine years (2014-2023). The politician expressed that it was time to hand over the reins. He does not want to reach a position where he would begin resenting the job.
In a snap press conference on September 26, he explained how the decision was not easy owing to the amount of things that have been achieved. “It’s not an easy job being the premier of this state, that’s not a complaint it’s just a fact.”
“Can I say to you that the moment you are not comfortable with that choice, doing this job as a defining feature of your entire life pretty much, the moment you are not comfortable with that decision for you and the people that you love, that’s when you have to step away.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says that he was surprised by the date of the resignation that was suddenly made public. They had planned to grab a drink soon. According to the PM, he wasn’t completely shocked but also didn’t expect it to happen.
In a statement, Albanese described Andrew as someone who has never shirked his responsibilities. “He stood up each and every day during the pandemic server for doing what he believed was absolutely right.” He added that Andrews will be remembered for his contribution to Victoria. He also claimed that it was a privilege to work alongside Andrews.
The Prime Minister and the Premier have shared a close friendship over the years and have strong ties to the Labor movement. Mr. Albanese is sure that they will remain friends in the future as well.
“Well, I can assure you that we will be having one or two beers, and Daniel does cook a great steak. I look forward to spending time with him and Cath in the future.”
Andrew revealed his plans now that he is no longer attached to politics. He said he will have some time off that he wants to spend with his family and kids. He would like to play golf and read a pile of books that have been piling up. He was also sure to thank his wife and children in his speech for supporting him despite him being worse than a workaholic.
It is inspiring to see a promising politician taking a step back after serving his years and handing over the reign instead of dragging out the position.
So, comment below what you think of Andrew’s decision and who you think is up for the role.
