Melbourne woke to a sombre headline on February 3, 2026: the era of Daniel Andrews — the longest-serving Victorian Premier in modern history — may be quietly drawing to a close, not through politics, but through a serious and rapidly deteriorating health crisis that his inner circle can no longer conceal.

Close family members and longtime confidants have begun speaking — anonymously at first, then more openly — about a condition that has progressively worsened since Andrews stepped down as Premier in September 2023. The former leader, who dominated Victorian politics for nearly nine years through lockdowns, infrastructure megaprojects, and a fiercely loyal public base, has been largely absent from public life for the past 18 months. What was initially explained as “time with family” and “recovery from the burdens of office” is now being described by those closest to him as a life-altering medical battle.

Sources say Andrews was first diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder in mid-2024, initially presenting as chronic fatigue, intermittent loss of coordination, and episodes of severe vertigo. Over the following year the condition progressed to include muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, and periods of significant cognitive fog — symptoms consistent with a form of motor neuron disease or a related neurodegenerative condition. Family members have confirmed that he has undergone multiple hospitalisations in the past six months, including a prolonged stay over Christmas 2025 during which his condition was described as “critical but stable.”

One close relative, speaking on condition of anonymity, told The Age: “Dan has been fighting this with the same determination he brought to every crisis as Premier. But there comes a point where you have to accept what your body is telling you. He’s told us privately, ‘It’s time.’ Not time to give up — time to let go of the public life he once lived.”

The news has sent ripples through Victoria’s political class. Andrews was a towering figure: he led the state through the longest and strictest COVID-19 lockdowns in the Western world, oversaw the controversial Suburban Rail Loop project, and maintained approval ratings that defied conventional political gravity. His departure in 2023 was sudden and emotional; he cited exhaustion and family priorities. Few at the time suspected a serious underlying illness.

Since stepping down, Andrews has made only sporadic public appearances — most recently a brief, frail video message supporting Victorian Labor ahead of the 2026 state election. Those who have seen him privately describe a man who remains mentally sharp and fiercely determined, but physically diminished. “He still has that fire in his eyes,” one friend said. “But his body is betraying him. It’s heartbreaking to watch.”

The revelation has prompted an outpouring of tributes and reflection. Current Premier Jacinta Allan called Andrews “one of the most consequential leaders Victoria has ever had” and wished him and his family strength. Opposition Leader John Pesutto offered bipartisan respect: “Whatever our differences, Dan Andrews was a formidable opponent and a dedicated servant of this state. We wish him well.” Former federal Labor leader Bill Shorten posted: “Dan carried burdens few could imagine. Now it’s time for him to rest.”

Public reaction has been mixed but largely sympathetic. Many Victorians who once vilified him over lockdowns have softened, acknowledging the personal toll of leadership. Others remain critical, viewing the health disclosure with skepticism or indifference. Social media is flooded with memories — both fond and furious — of the man who once seemed indestructible.

For Andrews, the next chapter is uncertain. Medical experts consulted by media outlets suggest that if the condition is indeed motor neuron-related, prognosis is guarded. He is reportedly spending his days at home with his wife Catherine and their three children, focusing on family and quiet reflection.

The man who once commanded press conferences with iron certainty now faces a far more personal battle — one no policy, no infrastructure project, no election can win. As Victoria prepares for life after Dan Andrews, the state he helped shape must now confront a future without him at the helm — and, perhaps, without him at all.

In the end, even the strongest leaders are mortal. And sometimes “It’s time” is not a political slogan — it’s a heartbreaking reality.