Image credit: Diego Fedele/AAP
Dan Andrews has announced he will stand down as Victoria’s 48th Premier effective from 5pm tomorrow, saying the job had started to “consume” him.
In a snap press conference this afternoon, Andrews said the job was the “honour and privilege” of his life.
“Nine years ago, I visited Government House to be sworn in as the 48th Premier of Victoria. But when it’s time, it’s time,” he said.
“In talking to my kids and Cath, talks of what life will be like after this job have started to creep in. I have always known, the moment that happens, it is time to give this privilege, this amazing responsibility, to someone else.”
Andrews’ resignation comes a year after the state’s Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Mental Health, James Merlino, announced his resignation.
The Victorian State Caucus will convene on Wednesday to appoint a new Premier, with Deputy Premier Jacinta Allan widely favoured.