Victoria’s premier Daniel Andrews has announced he is resigning as leader of the state.
Andrews held a snap press conference where he announced he will down from the role and as member for Mulgrave at 5pm tomorrow.
“I’m also proud to think of all that we have achieved over these nine years,” he said.
“It’s not an easy decision because, as much as we’ve achieved together, there is so much more to do.
“But, when it’s time, it’s time.”
Andrews said thoughts of what life is like after being the leader of the state started creeping in during conversations with his family in recent weeks – that’s how he knew it was time to go.
“It’s not an easy job being premier of our state,” he said.
“That’s not a complaint, that’s just a fact.
“It requires 100 per cent from you and your family. That, of course, is time limited and now is the time to step away.”
Andrews said the only way he knew how to do the job was to allow it to consume him, and define him, dubbing himself a true workaholic.
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“Every waking moment is about the work and that takes a toll,” he said.
“The moment you are not comfortable with that decision for you and the people you love, you have to step away.
“Because you never want to get to a place where you resent this job, this amazing privilege and important opportunity.”
He acknowledged there will be judgement of his leadership, but he leaves knowing he has implemented important policy.
After Andrews statement on resigning he was met by a round of applause by reporters.
As to what Andrews plans to do next, he’s going to spend time with his wife and the kids, play golf, and read books in the corner of his room that haven’t been read yet.
“I’m looking forward to a very different pace and doing different things,” he said.
Andrews was first elected to parliament in 2002.
He has been premier of Victoria since December 2014 and served as the 48th leader of the state.
