The Premier will replace former minister Adem Somyurek after a report was released earlier this week detailing his alleged bullying of chief of staff Dimity Paul.

He was forced to step down from the role, resulting in an explosive press conference in which Mr Somyurek criticised a factional dispute that led to the allegations going public.

Speaking in Maryborough, Mr Andrews said it was wrong to criticise Ms Paul for making the allegations.

“Frankly I’m really disappointed that we’ve got some people who like to be a victim blamer,” he said.

“It’s just wrong. We’ve had a process, the report speaks for itself, and the minister has done the only thing he could do and resigned, it’s as simple as that.”

The report, compiled by former Office of Police Integrity chief Michael Strong found Mr Somyurek had manhandled his chief of staff.

The government will hold a caucus meeting on Friday to select a replacement.

Mr Andrews said he would not talk about his preferences until the decision had been made, but there was unlikely to be huge changes.

“I don’t think there’s a need to be making large changes, we obviously need to fill the vacancy that’s been created earlier this week,” he said.

“I think it’s important to respect the process of the caucus. I’ve got a view to always include more people in important decision making processes rather than less.”

Mr Andrews was in Maryborough to announce a $15.6 million scheme to help disadvantages parents buy school uniforms and other essentials.

Education Minister and Deputy Premier James Merlino – who was at the centre of Mr Somyurek’s cricitism – was in Bacchus Marsh on Thursday for a similar education announcement.