Victorian premier's bronze statue plan halted as new panel reviews commemorations

Victoria's government has abandoned plans for a bronze statue of former premier Daniel Andrews, with new premier Ben Carroll ordering an independent, bipartisan review of how the state commemorates former leaders. Carroll emphasized fiscal prudence, noting that gratitude for past service does not require taxpayer-funded monuments. The move comes after prolonged political discussion triggered by Andrews' 3,000-day tenure milestone and a prior opposition promise to eliminate the project if the Coalition assumes power.

While the current statue contract will stay in place to prevent additional expenses, the upcoming panel will recommend alternative subjects and locations for any future works. The tradition of bronze statues began under Jeff Kennett in the late 1990s, featuring figures such as Sir Albert Dunstan, Sir Henry Bolte, Sir Rupert Hamer, and John Cain junior. Calls have also been made to honour former premier Joan Kirner, Victoria's first female premier. Andrews has not publicly responded to the cancellation.