The Victorian government has confirmed the cost for bronze statue of former Premier Daniel Andrews, sparking widespread outrage among the public.
The statue is estimated to cost a six-figure sum, which has many questioning the government’s priorities.
A Costly Tribute
The government has refused to disclose the exact cost of the statue, but the sculptor who created the four existing statues, Peter Corlett, has previously stated that such monuments can cost in excess of $100,000.
This has led to criticism from the opposition, with shadow finance minister Jess Wilson stating that the government’s decision to spend taxpayer funds on the statue shows “warped priorities” during a cost-of-living crisis.
A Legacy of Controversy
Mr Andrews’ tenure as premier was marked by a controversial response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw Melbourne placed under lockdown for a record 262 days.
The decision to honour him with a statue has been met with anger from many, who feel that his legacy is not one to be celebrated.
On social media, members of the public have expressed their outrage, with one user stating that the statue is a “reward” for a politician who “bankrupted the state” and allowed “taxpayers to be rorted senseless”.
A History of Statues
The four existing statues of former premiers, including John Cain Jr, Rupert Hamer, Henry Bolte, and Albert Dunstan, were created in the mid-1990s after former Premier Jeff Kennett introduced a policy to honour premiers who served for over 3,000 days.
Mr Andrews will become the fifth premier to be honoured with a statue, despite his own reservations about the idea while he was in office.
Mixed Reactions
While many have condemned the decision to create the statue, others have come to its defence. One social media user stated that the statue is “karma” for the Liberals, as it is a result of a former Liberal premier’s decision.
However, the majority of the public seems to be opposed to the idea, with many calling for the government to focus on more pressing issues.
What Do You Think?
Should the government be spending taxpayer funds on a statue of former Premier Daniel Andrews?
Share your thoughts in the comments below.