Former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has found an unlikely defender in his former Labor colleague Luke Donnellan, who claims the ongoing criticism of Andrews stems from his political success rather than any failing in leadership.
Packer's Explosive Comments
The defence comes as billionaire tycoon James Packer launched a shocking verbal attack on Andrews during a podcast interview, describing the former premier as 'human filth' and claiming he 'almost ruined my life'. Packer's outburst occurred during an interview on the Rampart podcast hosted by Joe Aston, conducted aboard his $200 million superyacht.
Packer specifically referenced Andrews' decision to impose a last-minute increase in casino tax rates during the $8.9 billion takeover of Crown Resorts by Blackstone in 2022. 'Daniel Andrews is about my least favourite person in the world. I think Daniel Andrews not only ruined Victoria, he almost ruined my life,' Packer stated during the interview.
Former Minister Rallies to Andrews' Defence
Luke Donnellan, who served as a minister under Andrews and retired from politics in 2022 after two decades as Narre Warren North MP, has spoken out strongly in support of his former boss. 'The thing I'll say about Daniel is he always did what he said he was going to do - he was always straightforward with the public,' Donnellan told the Daily Mail.
The former minister insisted that Andrews is facing criticism precisely because of his effectiveness as premier. 'You only get cancelled and focused on if you're very successful,' Donnellan argued. 'Daniel was superb communicating with suburban families, he was an incredibly successful premier who won his elections so convincingly.'
Growing Backlash Against Andrews
The controversy surrounding Andrews has intensified recently, with the former premier being labelled a 'dictator' in a controversial new mural that appeared in Melbourne over the weekend. The artwork by street artist Jarrod 'JGrech' Grech depicts Andrews wearing a suit with the word 'dictator' stamped across his image in red.
Social media reactions to the mural have been sharply divided, with some praising the artist's work while others condemned the portrayal. The mural has sparked heated online debates about Andrews' legacy since he stepped down as premier in late 2023 after nearly nine years in office.
Andrews has also faced business backlash, with several prominent figures including Jim's Mowing founder Jim Penman and Melbourne hospitality leaders Paul Dimattina and Chris Lucas banning the former premier from using their services. Exclusive golf clubs including the National Golf Club on the Mornington Peninsula have also reportedly refused Andrews membership.
Statue Controversy and International Criticism
The planned bronze statue to honour Andrews has drawn significant criticism, particularly given Victoria's current budget constraints and ballooning debt crisis. Liberal Sandringham MP Brad Rowswell has been particularly vocal in his opposition to the project.
'Cost of living is through the roof and Victorians don't feel safe in their homes,' Mr Rowswell told the Daily Mail. 'But Labor want to push on with an obelisk to their former dear leader. How out of touch can this mob be?'
Andrews also faced criticism from within his own party in September when he posed for a class photo alongside Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping during a visit to China, drawing concern from senior Labor figures.
Donnellan's Personal Insights
The 59-year-old former minister, who now chairs a road software company and serves on charity boards, revealed that he maintains regular contact with Andrews. 'We speak every so often, you know, pick up the phone and say hello,' Donnellan said, though he noted Andrews typically keeps his own counsel about public criticism.
Donnellan expressed confidence that Andrews would take Packer's comments in his stride. 'For Daniel it'll be water off a duck's back, I think he just smiles and gets on with business,' he said, highlighting Andrews' strong international relationships.
Since leaving politics, Andrews has taken on a new role at Orygen, a mental health organisation, while continuing to navigate the ongoing public debate about his legacy as one of Victoria's longest-serving premiers.
