Victorian Premier Dan Andrews resigns

Premier Andrews has resigned abruptly, stepping down from his role effective 5 pm Wednesday.

Having recently surpassed John Cain Jr. as the longest-serving Labor Premier in Victoria’s history in April 2023, Andrews’ decision was celebrated by many in the state who viewed his harsh rule as ‘tyrannical’.

Premier Dan Andrews has announced his resignation from the top political post in Victoria.

Flanked by his wife, Cath, Andrews called a hastily arranged press conference on Tuesday afternoon to deliver the news.

Having recently surpassed John Cain Jr. as the longest-serving Labor Premier in Victoria’s history in April 2023, Andrews’ decision was celebrated by many in the state who viewed his harsh rule as ‘tyrannical’.

“This is not an easy decision because, as much as we have achieved together, there is so much more to do,” he stated.

“But when it’s time, it’s time.”

Speculation is rife about the reasons behind this sudden departure, as the Premier’s unexpected announcement leaves many wondering about the future of Victoria’s leadership.

Daniel Andrews tells the press pack that his legacy as a Victorian Labor premier is “for you guys to work out”.

“I could have stood up here and done a … laundry list of things … I’m not in this for that reason and that’s what leadership is about … subjecting yourself to the almost continuous judgment of others,” he says.

PM ‘shocked’ by Andrews’ resignation but wishes outgoing Victorian premier well

Andrews said he has spoken with the prime minister, Anthony Albanese, about this decision, who was “shocked” but wished him well.

I thanked him for the fact that finally at last we have a prime minister who might be from Sydney, but is not just for Sydney. He knows where Victoria is, he knows how to build things [and] how to get things done.

He has been a dear friend of mine for nearly three decades, and I said to him, thank you, thank you for the partnership…