Caretaker Conventions

When a Federal election is called, the House of Representatives is dissolved. This means there is no popular chamber to which Executive Government can be accountable

Also, elections bring the possibility the government will change.

For these reasons the Government assumes a caretaker role from the dissolution of the House, until the outcome if the election is clear or, if there is a change, the new government is sworn in.

During this period business-as-usual administration continues however, governments refrain from actions that would bind an incoming government and limit its freedom.

By convention the government avoids:

• Making major policy decisions that are likely to commit an incoming government.
• Making significant appointments; and
• Entering major contracts or undertakings

The APS adopts practices that support these conventions.

During the Caretaker period it is important to uphold the apolitical nature and reputation of the APS.

We need to take care to avoid the use of Commonwealth resources in any way that would advantage one political party over another.  This can include taking extra care with:

• advertising and information campaigns
• website content
• agency social media posts
• use of agency premises; and
• requests from Ministers ‘ offices for information.

If you are unsure whether something you are working on could be affected, please talk to your supervisor about it.

APS employees should also ensure they do not personally use their position or APS resources to support political parties or issues.

For more detailed information you can read: Guidance on Caretaker Conventions on the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet Website.