M2010-15 2011 State Election – Caretaker Conventions
This Memorandum has superseded M2011-04, M2010-15, M2010-14, M2010-10, M2010-09, M2010-05, M2010-04, M2009-21, M2009-18, M2009-14, M2009-06, M2009-08, M2008-25, M2008-19, M2008-16, M2008-12, M2008-11, M2008-03, M2007-19, M2007-11, M2007-09, M2007-06, M2007-03, M2006-14, M2006-07, M2005-15, M2005-11, M2005-01, M2004-07, M2002-23, M2002-20, M2002-01, M2001-15, M2001-06, M2000-13, M1999-20, M1998-40, M1998-05, M1998-04, M1998-03, M1997-30, M1997-25, M1997-23, M1997-21, M1997-17, M1996-24, M1990-29 and M1990-06.
Issued: 14 October 2010 by Department of Premier and Cabinet
This AR is archived. No replacements were suggested by the author.
Key information
- Status
- Archived
- Type
- Premier's Memorandum
- Identifier
- M2010-15
- Compliance
- Not mandatory
About
Attachment: ‘Caretaker’ conventions and other pre-election practices - 2011 general state election
A number of conventions that have evolved in relation to periods of ‘caretaker’ government should be adhered to in New South Wales. These conventions cover the period immediately leading up to a general election and continue until either the Government is returned or a new Government is commissioned.
In 2011, the caretaker period will commence when the Legislative Assembly is dissolved on Friday, 4 March 2011.
As a general rule, no significant new decisions or initiatives, appointments, or contractual undertakings should be made during the caretaker period. Routine government business, however, should proceed as usual.
In addition to the formal caretaker conventions, which only apply in the caretaker period, there are other established practices that apply in the months leading up to an election. Many of these are directed toward protecting the political neutrality of the public service and ensuring that public resources are not misused for party political purposes.
Generally, these pre-election practices should be observed once the Legislative Assembly rises for the last time before the election (which is different from the date on which the Legislative Assembly is formally dissolved). The last sitting day of the Legislative Assembly before the 2011 State election is scheduled to be 3 December 2010.
To assist Ministers, the attached outline of the relevant conventions and practices has been prepared. Should any difficulties arise in the application of these conventions or practices in particular circumstances, Ministers should contact the Director-General, Department of Premier and Cabinet.
Please ensure that all agencies within your portfolio are advised of these conventions and practices.
Kristina Keneally MP
Premier