Former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has been hospitalised, with reports indicating he is being treated for a mysterious illness at a major Melbourne facility.
Conflicting Reports on Premier's Condition
The 53-year-old was admitted to Monash Clayton Hospital several days ago, according to information first published by the Herald Sun. The exact nature of his medical episode remains unclear, with sources providing conflicting accounts to the publication.
One source suggested the former state leader may have suffered a stroke, while another person familiar with the situation disagreed with that specific diagnosis. A separate source characterised the incident as a "minor medical issue", adding to the uncertainty surrounding his health.
A History of Serious Injury
This is not the first major health scare for Andrews since leaving office. In 2021, the former premier, who steered Victoria through the nation's toughest and longest COVID-19 lockdowns, was hospitalised after a serious fall.
He slipped on wet stairs while on holiday and was taken to The Alfred hospital's intensive care unit, where he was treated for fractured ribs and a fractured vertebra.
Life After Leadership
Andrews stepped down from his role as premier in September 2023, concluding a nearly nine-year tenure as the state's leader. At the time of his resignation, he strongly denied that his previous back injury played any role in accelerating his decision to leave politics.
Since his departure, Andrews has maintained a relatively low public profile. One of his few notable public appearances was in September, when he attended a military parade in China.
The news of his current hospitalisation has sparked concern and renewed public interest in the health of the influential former leader, whose policies and leadership style continue to shape political discourse in Victoria.