The caretaker period spans the time the Legislative Assembly expires until the election result is clear or a new government is commissioned. The caretaker period for the 2026 Victorian election will commence at 6.00pm on Tuesday 3 November 2026, unless the Legislative Assembly is dissolved before this date.
The business of government and public administration continues throughout the caretaker period. However, the caretaker conventions seek to ensure that the government does not take action during the caretaker period that will bind an incoming government or limit its freedom of action.
This means that, during the caretaker period, the government should avoid:
- implementing major policy decisions that are likely to commit an incoming government
- making significant appointments
- entering major contracts or undertakings.
The caretaker conventions also help ensure that the public sector remains, and is perceived to remain, apolitical.
Questions about the operation of the caretaker conventions should be directed to Miriam Holmes, General Counsel, DPC at caretaker@dpc.vic.gov.au.
Updated