Geelong politicians, leaders, readers react to Premier Dan Andrews’ resignation

Outgoing Premier Daniel Andrews has been one of recent history’s most powerful politicians. Here’s what Geelong leaders and readers had to say about his shock resignation.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announces his resignation at Parliament House in Melbourne. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Andrew Henshaw

After almost nine years in the top job, Premier Daniel Andrews has announced he will walk away from the Victorian parliament – effective 5pm Wednesday.

We asked local political and business leaders, as well as our readers, about the impact of his leadership.

Christine Couzens – Geelong MP

“I am very proud to have served in the Andrews Labor Government for the past nine years under the leadership of Dan Andrews.

“The legacy Dan leaves for Victoria and the Geelong community is unprecedented.

“I wish Dan and his family the very best for the future.”

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Member for Geelong, Christine Couzens paid tribute to Daniel Andrews. Picture: Brad fleet

Richard Marles – Deputy Prime Minister and Corio MP

“Dan Andrews’ announcement today marks the end of one of the great contributions to Australian politics.

“He has led our state through some of the most difficult periods in recent history.

“His leadership both during the Black Summer (2020) bushfires and the Covid pandemic has made us stronger and seen us get through to the other side.”

Michael Johnston – Committee for Geelong chief executive

“Whether you were a supporter or otherwise, Dan Andrews’ conviction is hard to question.

“You don’t win three elections easily – clearly this style of leadership resonated with many people in Victoria.

“The Committee for Geelong will be seeking a continued focus by the state government, under the next Premier, on addressing the major issues facing Geelong and the region.”

Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan. Picture: Alan Barber

Trent Sullivan – City of Greater Geelong mayor

“Political leadership is no easy task and I thank Mr Andrews for his service to our

state.

“I look forward to working with the next Premier and Cabinet members.”

Darren Cheeseman – South Barwon MP

“I would like to thank Daniel Andrews for his leadership of Victoria and the Victorian Labor Party.

“Together, we’ve seen unprecedented times and have built a better and brighter future for all Victorians.”

MP Bev McArthur says the next Premier will have to rebuild. Picture: Andy Rogers

Bev McArthur – Western Victorian MLC

“The next Premier will have some serious rebuilding work to do.

“Daniel Andrews’ legacy of project mismanagement and business hatred leaves an economy heavily indebted, overtaxed and over-regulated.

“But his dismissive attitude to democracy and accountability could be even more damaging – it will take years to rebuild Victorians’ faith in our government.”

Alison Marchant – Bellarine MP

“The thing about Dan Andrews is that he understands what really matters to communities.

“I remember him announcing the fracking ban alongside farmers, saying these decisions are about doing the right thing for future farming generations.

“He did the same when announcing the Bellarine Distinctive Areas and Landscapes program.”

Sarah Henderson - Senator for Victoria

“From the moment Mr Andrews became premier, his Labor government has been mired in controversy, incompetence and allegations of corruption.

“Locally, the Andrews Labor government failed our community in so many ways – from mismanaging the Geelong City Deal to delaying by 10 years a new Geelong women and children’s hospital to failing to deliver community infrastructure promised as part of the Commonwealth Games bid.”

Giulia Baggio – Geelong Regional Alliance (G21) chief executive

“It’s an incredibly tough job and Daniel Andrews hasn’t wasted a second executing an ambitious program.

“Locally, the transformation of Geelong Arts Centre, the convention centre and other City Deal projects receive a tick, but the Commonwealth Games cancellation still stings.”

Jeremy Crawford – Geelong Chamber of Commerce chief executive

“As one of Victoria’s longest serving premiers, Dan Andrews made some big decisions. “Whether people agree with them or not, you have to acknowledge his legacy will be remembered.”

Kathleen Bailey, Geelong Advertiser reader

“What a huge hole he has left for the rest to fill. Massive crater. What a mess.

“Let’s see what his remaining members can do to help fill this or will the bus be coming out?

“Come on Jenny Mikakos, let’s hear what you have to say.”

Bradleigh Dean, Geelong Advertiser reader

“Thanks for the two years of lockdowns, our record $230m of debt.

“Worst Premier in Victoria’s history, but the most sad part is, he got in again after Covid.

“Is Victoria full of clowns?”

Sarah Mansfield – Western Victorian MLC

“I thank Premier Andrews for his service to Victoria.

“The Greens look forward to working with whoever Labor chooses to succeed him to tackle the big issues the state faces including climate change, the housing crisis, and cost-of-living pressures.”

Libby Coker – Corangamite MP

“Dan leaves behind an amazing legacy as a great premier and an extraordinary leader of our state.

“From significant infrastructure investments to the revival of our state’s public transport system, through to extraordinary investments in social housing and support for our most vulnerable community members – Dan has left his mark on Victoria for the better.”

Originally published as Geelong politicians, leaders, readers react to Premier Dan Andrews’ resignation