‘Very happy’: Orygen director defends controversial Daniel Andrews appointment

The director of a youth mental health organisation has defended the call to appoint Daniel Andrews as its new chairman.

Orygen has announced in recent days that Mr Andrews would take up a three-year term in the role, a decision which caused widespread debate.

Orygen executive director Patrick McGorry told Tom Elliott that the former premier had a good track record dealing with mental health, despite the divisive lockdowns which Victoria endured under his leadership during the COVID years.

Click PLAY to hear Patrick McGorry’s full interview on 3AW

“As a political leader he has done a tremendous amount for mental health, including during the pandemic,” he said on 3AW Mornings.

“We don’t have any problems with that within the Orygen board, all of our staff are very happy about this appointment.”

Tom Elliott earlier said he was shocked by Mr Andrews’ appointment to the role,  calling for those who made the decision to “have a look in the mirror”.

Click PLAY to hear Tom Elliott’s full editorial on Daniel Andrews’ new job