When will Daniel Andrews be back? It’s unclear, but we’re getting a taste of politics without him

Victorian politics has been a little quieter in recent weeks as the media spotlight shines brightly on the darkest corners of federal parliament.

It’s also been quieter because Labor’s talismanic leader Daniel Andrews is sidelined after falling over some wet stairs and fracturing a vertebra and several ribs.

He won’t be returning to work for many weeks, his injuries requiring a long and painful stint in recovery. No date has been set for his return, but it is at least a six-week break.

The Premier has always been the visible embodiment of this Victorian Labor government and his absence has resulted in a slower visual pace on Spring Street.

Not since Jeff Kennett has Victoria had such a dominant force in the Premier’s office, Monash…