Former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and his wife, Catherine Andrews, are facing a defamation lawsuit in the Federal Court over statements they made regarding a 2013 car accident that left then-15-year-old cyclist Ryan Meuleman with serious injuries.
The lawsuit follows a review by Former Assistant Commissioner for Traffic and Operations, Raymond Shuey, which alleged that the Andrews’ vehicle was “travelling at speed” on the wrong side of the road when it struck Meuleman. The review further accused Victoria Police of an “overt cover-up” to shield a high-profile political figure.
Shuey’s findings contradicted the original police investigation, which cleared the Andrews of wrongdoing. The review described the police probe as “deeply flawed” and “contrary to the available evidence.“
Andrews Dismisses Allegations
In response to the review’s findings, the Andrews released a statement dismissing it as a politically motivated attack:
“This so-called report was commissioned by lawyers on behalf of their clients who are seeking money through the courts by suing their former lawyers. We did nothing wrong. This matter has already been comprehensively and independently investigated and closed by Victoria Police and integrity agencies. We will not dignify these appalling conspiracy theories by commenting further at this time.”
Despite their denial of wrongdoing, the legal battle continues. The Meuleman family is now suing the former Premier and his wife for defamation, arguing that their public statements have further damaged Ryan’s reputation and well-being.
Family Demands Transparency
Ryan’s father, Peter Meuleman, has accused the Andrews of dishonesty, stating:
“No more lies. Daniel and Catherine Andrews can either finally tell the truth now, and apologise to Ryan, or we can let a Federal Court judge decide.”
He emphasised the lasting impact on his son:
“Ryan has suffered terribly because of what Daniel and Catherine Andrews did to him that day and because of the lies they’ve told since.”
Legal Challenges Mount
This defamation lawsuit is separate from an ongoing Supreme Court case in which the Meuleman family is suing law firm Slater & Gordon, alleging that they failed to properly represent Ryan after the 2013 accident.
Meanwhile, debate continues over the true circumstances of the crash. The Andrews maintain that their vehicle was stationary and turning when Meuleman’s bike collided with them. However, Meuleman claims the car was speeding and “seemed to come out of nowhere.“
Photographs from the scene show significant damage to the Andrews’ car and windscreen. An Ambulance Victoria report from the time noted that the car “struck” Meuleman while travelling at “40 to 60km/h.”
As legal proceedings progress, the Meuleman family remains determined to seek accountability for what they believe has been a long-running failure of justice.
