Victorian Government Orders Statue for Former Premier Daniel Andrews

May 15, 2026, 21:36
AustraliaPolitics

Introduction

The Victorian government has started the process of building a bronze statue to honor former Premier Daniel Andrews, using public money to pay for the project.

Main Body

The decision to build the monument is based on a rule created by the Kennett government. This rule states that Premiers who serve for more than 3,000 days can be honored with a statue at 1 Treasury Place. Since Mr. Andrews is the longest-serving Labor Premier in the state's history, he meets this requirement. The project will cost $134,304 and has been given to Meridian Sculpture, a company experienced in creating state monuments. At the same time, Premier Jacinta Allan's government is facing criticism over the 'Big Build' infrastructure program. Specifically, there are claims that a company called 'Women in Construction' was owned by a man with a history of violence against women and previously managed by a convicted drug dealer. These allegations suggest that public money, which was meant to help more women enter the construction industry, may have been misused. Public reaction has been divided. The government emphasized that the statue is a fair tribute to Mr. Andrews' leadership during difficult times. However, Opposition Leader Jess Wilson asserted that spending this money is inappropriate during a cost-of-living crisis. She further suggested that the announcement was timed to distract the public from the infrastructure scandals.

Conclusion

The statue is now being made, while the government continues to deal with accusations of corruption within its major construction projects.

Learning

⚡ The B2 Jump: From 'Simple Facts' to 'Complex Claims'

At the A2 level, you describe what happened. To reach B2, you must describe how people view what happened.

Look at the difference in the text:

  • A2 Style: "The government is building a statue. It costs money."
  • B2 Style: "Opposition Leader Jess Wilson asserted that spending this money is inappropriate."

🛠️ The Power of 'Reporting Verbs'

Stop using say and think. B2 speakers use precise verbs to show the speaker's intention.

Instead of...Use this B2 wordWhy?
SaidAssertedIt shows a strong, confident statement of fact.
SaidEmphasizedIt shows the speaker wants you to notice a specific point.
ThoughtSuggestedIt introduces an idea without being 100% certain.

🧠 Nuance Shift: The "Cost-of-Living Crisis"

Notice the phrase "cost-of-living crisis." An A2 student might say "things are expensive." A B2 student uses a compound noun (Cost-of-living) to describe a global economic situation. This makes your English sound professional and academic.

🚀 Quick Transformation Guide

To move toward B2, try replacing simple adjectives with 'evaluative' words found in the text:

  • Instead of "bad" →\rightarrow use "inappropriate" (not suitable for the situation).
  • Instead of "not true" →\rightarrow use "allegations" (claims that are not yet proven).
  • Instead of "important" →\rightarrow use "fair tribute" (a deserved honor).

Vocabulary Learning

statue (n.)
A three-dimensional representation of a person or thing.
Example:The statue of Daniel Andrews was unveiled in front of the parliament building.
premier (n.)
The head of government in a state or country.
Example:The premier announced new policies during the press conference.
monument (n.)
A structure erected to commemorate a person or event.
Example:The monument to the fallen soldiers stands in the town square.
infrastructure (n.)
The fundamental facilities and systems serving a country or region.
Example:The government invested in infrastructure to improve transportation.
misused (v.)
Used incorrectly or for the wrong purpose.
Example:The grant was misused by the company for personal expenses.
divided (adj.)
Split into parts; having conflicting views.
Example:The public reaction was divided between supporters and critics.
opposition (n.)
A group or party that opposes a policy or government.
Example:The opposition raised concerns about the new law.
asserted (v.)
Stated firmly or confidently.
Example:She asserted that the funds were spent responsibly.
corruption (n.)
Dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power.
Example:The investigation uncovered corruption in the bidding process.
major (adj.)
Significant or large in importance.
Example:The major construction projects were delayed by weather.
construction (n.)
The building of something.
Example:The construction of the bridge began in 2018.
rule (n.)
A prescribed guide for conduct.
Example:The rule requires all employees to wear safety gear.
requirement (n.)
A needed condition or specification.
Example:The requirement for the job includes a degree in engineering.
cost (n.)
The amount of money needed to buy or do something.
Example:The cost of the new stadium was estimated at $200 million.
public (adj.)
Relating to the people as a whole.
Example:The public was invited to attend the ceremony.
money (n.)
Currency used as a medium of exchange.
Example:The money raised will fund the new library.
history (n.)
The record of past events.
Example:The history of the city dates back to the 18th century.
leadership (n.)
The action of leading or the ability to do so.
Example:Her leadership helped the team succeed.
difficult (adj.)
Hard to do or deal with.
Example:The negotiations were difficult due to differing interests.
crisis (n.)
A time of intense difficulty or danger.
Example:The cost‑of‑living crisis has affected many families.
scandal (n.)
A situation that causes public outrage or embarrassment.
Example:The scandal involving the mayor led to his resignation.
announcement (n.)
A public statement about something.
Example:The announcement of the new policy was delayed.
timed (adj.)
Scheduled or arranged at a particular time.
Example:The campaign was timed to coincide with the election.
distract (v.)
Divert attention away from something.
Example:The fireworks were used to distract the crowd.
accusation (n.)
A claim that someone has done something wrong.
Example:The accusation of fraud was denied by the company.