In an announcement that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Australia, Victorian Premier Dan Andrews announced his resignation on Tuesday, September 26.

An emotional Andrews, who has held the position since December 2014, revealed that it had been an “honour and privilege” to hold the job.

“Nine years ago, I visited Government House to be sworn in as the 48th Premier of Victoria,” he told reporters during a snap press conference.

“But when it’s time, it’s time.

“It’s time to go and to give this privilege this amazing responsibility to someone else.”

Andrews disclosed his choice to resign arose from a profound realisation that the demands of the role had begun to overwhelm him.

“In talking to my kids and Kath, talks of what life will be like after this job have started to creep in,” he said.

“I have always known, the moment that happens, it is time to to give this privilege, this amazing responsibility, to someone else.

“It is not an easy job being premier of our state… That is just a fact.

“It requires 100 per cent from you and your family. That, of course, is time-limited and now is the time to step away. The only way that I know how to do this job is to have it consume me, to have it define me.

“To a certain extent, every waking moment is about the work and that takes a toll.”

In wrapping up his announcement, Andrews gave thanks to his wife Cath and their two sons for their ongoing support.

“To my family, to my mother and father, to my sister, I couldn’t ask for more,” he said.

“Cath, she is my best friend and none of this was remotely possible without her support, her guidance and her love. Noah, Grace and Joseph, they know only politics that has done this.

“For all the matters meant, thank you. You are everything to me.”

A successor to Andrews is expected to be chosen by his party at midday on Wednesday, September 26.