A bronze statue of former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews is expected to be immortalised outside government offices near Treasury Gardens in central Melbourne. This honour is reserved for premiers who have served more than 3,000 days in office, a rule introduced by former Liberal premier Jeff Kennett.
While the process is underway, details regarding the statue’s cost and precise location remain unclear.
A spokesperson from the government confirmed that the Department of Premier and Cabinet has been tasked with preparing a brief for the statue, but no further information has been disclosed.
The decision to honour Andrews has drawn criticism, particularly from the opposition.
Finance spokesperson Jess Wilson voiced concerns, stating, “As Victoria buckles under a cost-of-living crisis, a failing health system, and surging crime, Premier Allan’s priority is to erect a statue for Daniel Andrews instead of delivering relief for Victorian taxpayers.”
This week marks a significant milestone for Andrews, who resigned on Sept. 26, 2022, with Jacinta Allan succeeding him as Premier.
Major Accomplishments
During his nearly nine years in office, Andrews initiated numerous initiatives that reshaped Victoria, most notably through the ambitious “Big Build” infrastructure projects.These included the development of the Metro Tunnel, the North East Link, and the removal of dozens of level crossings, all aimed at enhancing the state’s transport system and boosting economic growth.
He also implemented significant reforms in rental laws, legalised medicinal cannabis, and decriminalised sex work, demonstrating a commitment to social progress.
Andrews’s government was also proactive in addressing mental health issues, launching programs like safe injection rooms and establishing exclusion zones for protests outside abortion clinics.
His administration prioritised Indigenous Australian treaties and compensation reform for victims of institutional child sexual abuse, signalling a dedication to social justice.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite his accomplishments, Andrews faced considerable criticism during his tenure.He was often at the centre of controversies, most notably regarding his management of the COVID-19 pandemic. His government implemented one of the longest and strictest lockdowns in the world, drawing both support for prioritising public health and backlash from those affected by the restrictions.
In the latter part of his premiership, Andrews made headlines for the controversial decision to cancel the 2026 Commonwealth Games, which were slated to be hosted in regional Victoria.
Citing skyrocketing costs that had ballooned to an estimated $6 billion, he argued that the financial burden was unjustifiable. This decision added to his reputation as a leader who prioritised fiscal responsibility, yet it also drew criticism from those who saw the Games as an opportunity for regional development.
Andrews left office with Victorians owing $171 billion (US$112 billion), surpassing the combined debt of Queensland, New South Wales, and Tasmania.
Andrews’s leadership style was often described as both divisive and controversial. While many loyal supporters praised his decisive action and leadership during crises, others criticised his approach as autocratic.
Notably, he was embroiled in the Red Shirts scandal and faced scrutiny over public housing tower lockdowns, which were significant liabilities for his government.
