The husband of Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has been fined and stripped of his driving licence after being caught drink driving while on a routine morning errand.
A Shocking Morning Interception
Yorick Piper, the premier's spouse, was pulled over for a random breath test in Bendigo just before 9am on Thursday morning. The interception occurred as he was driving to a local supermarket to buy groceries. Prior to the test, his vehicle had been involved in a minor collision at an intersection, described as a "fender bender."
Details were exchanged with the other driver, who confirmed they were unharmed, and both parties continued on their way. Shortly afterwards, Piper was directed into a Victoria Police roadside testing operation, where he willingly submitted to the test.
Premier's Emotional Response
A visibly upset Premier Allan addressed the media on Friday, stating she was "deeply shocked, disappointed and embarrassed" by the incident. She revealed that her husband had been equally stunned to record a blood alcohol reading over the legal limit of 0.05%.
Allan explained the context, noting the couple had celebrated their son's birthday at a pub the previous evening, finishing around 8pm. Crucially, she stated Piper is currently taking medication for a health issue, and the combination of this medication with residual alcohol from the night before meant he should not have been driving.
"He understands that, I understand that, and for this, we are both truly sorry," the Premier told reporters.
Consequences and Amends
As a result of the failed breath test, Yorick Piper received an on-the-spot fine. His driver's licence was suspended for three months, effective from 16 January.
In response to the incident, the couple have made a $1,000 donation to the Amber Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation that provides free counselling, road incident support, and road safety education.
The Premier emphasised that her husband fully accepts the penalties imposed by Victoria Police and the serious nature of his error in judgement.
