Backlash Over $134,000 Statue of Former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews
A plan by the Victorian government to erect a bronze statue of former Premier Daniel Andrews in Melbourne's Treasury Square has sparked significant criticism from business leaders and politicians. The project, estimated to cost taxpayers over $134,000, is being condemned as a waste of money and tone-deaf, particularly given Andrews' controversial tenure during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Prominent critics include Jim's Mowing founder Jim Penman, who labeled Andrews the state's most disastrous premier, and hospitality CEO Wes Lambert, who cited ongoing industry struggles. Even former Liberal Premier Jeff Kennett, who established the policy of honoring premiers with over 3,000 days in service, expressed dissatisfaction with the expenditure. In defense, current Premier Jacinta Allan described Andrews as fantastic and noted the administration is merely following established precedent. Opposition Leader Jess Wilson criticized the decision as failing the pub test. The construction timeline for the statue remains unconfirmed amidst the growing public and political debate regarding the appropriateness of the memorial.
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