‘I’m Tired’: WA Premier Steps Down Citing Exhaustion From COVID-19 Lockdown Years

Western Australian Labor Premier Mark McGowan speaks to media during a press conference at Dumas House in Perth, Australia on May 29, 2023. AAP Image/Richard Wainwright

The Australian Labor premier that oversaw one of the toughest domestic border closures during the COVID-19 pandemic is calling it quits, saying the pandemic years exhausted him.

West Australian Premier Mark McGowan, 55, made the surprise announcement on May 29 revealing this would be his final week as premier and treasurer of the mining-rich state.