Premier Daniel Andrews breaks ribs after falling down steps

Premier Daniel Andrews is recuperating in a trauma ward after suffering a “nasty fall” during a long weekend beach getaway.

Daniel Andrews could be unable to walk for weeks after falling down steps.

The Premier was preparing to return from a weekend away at a rental on the Mornington Peninsula when he slipped and fell on Tuesday morning.

He was taken to hospital where it was revealed he had broken several ribs and damaged his spine.

Mr Andrews remained in intensive care last night amid concerns about crushed vertebrae.

He was first admitted to the Peninsula Private Hospital but on Tuesday night was transferred to The Alfred trauma centre as a “precautionary measure” after further scans.

Senior government sources said the extent of the injuries came as a surprise, given Mr Andrews had remained in good spirits after the fall.

Premier Daniel Andrews is recuperating from a horror fall. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Daniel Pockett

It is understood Mr ­Andrews did not suffer any head injuries and was conscious when he was taken to hospital.

In a statement issued on Tuesday afternoon, the Premier said doctors had advised he take some time off to recover, with sources saying he could need several weeks.

“Early this morning, I was admitted to hospital after slipping and falling on wet and slippery stairs,” he said.

“A CT scan has revealed several broken ribs and vertebrae damage, and subsequent medical advice has recommended I remain in intensive care for the next few days.

“James Merlino will serve as Acting Premier while I recover over the next few days.

“I hope to be able to provide another update later this week.

“For now, we’d like to ask that our family’s privacy is ­respected.

“Cath, the kids and I are extremely grateful to the Ambulance Victoria paramedics who showed such care and kindness to our family this morning, as we are to the clinicians who have taken care of me.”

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews at North Melbourne ambulance station making a funding announcement on March 4. Picture: Andrew Henshaw

The Premier cancelled his appearance at a press conference announcing Victoria’s landmark Indigenous reconciliation inquiry.

Mr Andrews expressed his thanks to family, friends, colleagues and Victorians for their support.

“I hope to be able to provide another update later this week,” he said.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said he wished Mr Andrews “all the best” for his recovery.

The Prime Minister on Wednesday said he had not yet heard back from the Premier.

“I sent him a text to see how he was going,” Mr Morrison said.

“I haven’t heard back from him. I imagine he’s been a bit busy.

“I wish him all the best. I hope he’s very well.”

Opposition Leader Michael O’Brien also took to Twitter to wish the Premier well.

“Hope it’s not serious,” he wrote. “Wishing Daniel a speedy recovery.”