Full Breakdown
Victorian Government Cancels Daniel Andrews Statue
8/29/2026, 5:58:38 AM
Decision to Halt Statue Project
The Labor government led by Premier Ben Carroll announced the termination of a planned bronze statue honoring former Premier Daniel Andrews. Work on the effigy began in May, but Carroll directed the independent panel reviewing state commemorations to stop the project and consider an alternative subject and location. The statue contract will remain in place, allowing the commissioned work to be repurposed rather than cancelled.
Policy Background
The statue was part of a policy introduced by the Jeff Kennett government in 1999, which automatically recognises Victorian premiers who serve more than 3,000 days with a bronze monument on Treasury Place. Four former premiers—Sir Albert Dunstan, Sir Henry Bolte, Sir Rupert Hamer and John Cain Jr.—have already been installed under that scheme. A fifth long-serving premier, Sir James McCulloch, has not received a statue.
Official Statements & Responses
Carroll emphasized fiscal prudence, saying gratitude for former leaders does not require a taxpayer-funded statue and that careful spending respects Victorians’ money. Former Premier Jeff Kennett defended the original intent of the statues as supporting the arts and civic life, while noting the decision to scrap the Andrews work is “prudent” given Andrews left office only a few years ago. The independent panel will also review the frequency, scale and costs of state funerals and memorial services.
Opposition Reaction
Liberal opposition leader Jess Wilson criticised the project as wasteful, arguing that Victorians are fed up with Labor’s spending and that a new government should treat public funds with respect.
Data & Statistics
- Planned cost of the Andrews statue: $134,000 (government estimate).
- The 1999 initiative produced five bronze statues of former premiers, with a sixth commission now pending reassignment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are grateful to former premiers for their service. But gratitude does not require a taxpayer-funded statue,” — The Carroll
