Facing the prospect of a third term in power, Victoria’s premier worries about the rise of extremism and says his reform agenda is not over
He describes it as the “biggest economic and social reform” he has been involved with during his two decades in the Victorian parliament.
Andrews is quick to bring the conversation back to his priorities. Within the past week, he’s made some “smaller and more targeted” election promises that will make a “profound difference”, including more than $166m toacross the state. He pledged to roll out free pads and tampons in public places, double the number of endometriosis surgeries, create a Women’s Health Research Institute and establish an inquiry into women’s pain management. All were guided by a panel of women, he says.
The package includes an extension of outside-hours care at specialist schools, onsite allied health appointments, the introduction of NDIS navigators and as well as 1,000 scholarships to attract speech pathologists, occupational therapists and disability workers to regional areas. The prime minister has firmly insisted Australians expect the party to honour its election pledge to honour the cuts. It’s a principle with which Andrews agrees.As for Victoria’s budget, Andrews is confident, despite the outlook for this financial year being downgraded twice in recent weeks.
But unlike 2018, when Labor went to the election promising the big-ticket Suburban Rail Loop and a train line to the airport, the party has been more reserved in its commitments this time around. “With the biggest coal-fired power station leaving in the middle of next decade, now’s the time to really push forward,” Andrews says.Photograph: Joel Carrett/AAPabout the premier’s fall down some steps last year and reporting on a car crash nine years ago involving his wife, Catherine, have been especially hard on his family.
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