Daniel Andrews cops brutal TV grilling over anti-corruption watchdog claims

Daniel Andrews copped a major grilling from the morning TV show hosts.

Daniel Andrews is facing renewed pressure to lift the lid on his state’s anti-corruption watchdog, dismissing claims he is a polarising figure.

The Victorian Premier appeared on TV on Monday morning to promote Labor’s commitment to bring back the State Electricity Commission if re-elected on November 26.

But instead he faced a grilling about revelations the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission has interviewed him over a probe into his government awarding a $3.4 million contract to a union, known as Operation Daintree.

“No C-word yesterday,” Nine host Ally Langdon began referring to his campaign launch, with the Premier confusing it for Covid.

“I wasn't thinking Covid,” she interrupted, “I was thinking corruption. Matthew Guy went hard on that one yesterday. Is integrity and transparency important to you or not so much?”

Daniel Andrews was grilled by Ally Langdon on the Today Show.

Mr Andrews responded by outlining the funding the state government had provided to IBAC, insisting his actions were “more important” than claims made during election time.

“I behave appropriately at all times. That's the oath I swore. I get on everyday and deliver for the people of my great state,” the Premier responded.

It is the fourth time Mr Andrews has been interviewed by IBAC during the current term of office.

The Premier has repeatedly sparred with reporters about the inquiry on the campaign trial.

Last week, IBAC was granted an injunction in the Supreme Court that prevented the publication of a draft report into Operation Daintree.

Asked why Victorians were being left in the dark if he had nothing to hide, Mr Andrews said he had acted appropriately.

Daniel Andrews insists he has acted appropriately.

“Final reports will be issued when those agencies determine they are ready to be issued. If they have findings to make they will make them. No findings have been made at any point,” the Premier told Nine.

Appearing later on ABC News Breakfast, Mr Andrews declined to accept he polarised Victorians.

“That’s a matter for commentators … I’m not here to talk about myself,” the Premier said.

“What I accept . is that I have a responsibility as the leader of this state not to do just the popular things, but to do the things that are right.”

Mr Andrews also ruled out a deal with the Greens and Independents in the event of a minority government.

Early voting centres will open across the state on Monday, with the Victorian Electoral Commission estimating more than half enrolled voters will cast their ballot before election day.

But electoral commissioner Warwick Gately has warned 21 of the 155 voting centres will open later than planned due to printing delays and wet weather.