- The convention that the government avoids entering major undertakings during the caretaker period gives rise to particular issues in the context of intergovernmental negotiations, participation in intergovernmental forums and visits by interstate or overseas dignitaries and officials.
- The government ordinarily seeks to defer intergovernmental negotiations or adopt observer status until the end of the caretaker period. The other parties to the negotiations, however, may not be familiar with the concept of caretaker conventions and the government may need to explain the constraints they impose.
- If deferring involvement or adopting observer status is not feasible, the government should limit its role to providing information on its position as settled before the commencement of the caretaker period, without committing the incoming government to that position.
- If it is necessary for the government to participate fully in the negotiations, it should:
- advise the other parties to the negotiations that any outcomes will need to be authorised by the incoming government, or
- consult with the Opposition, to seek their agreement or endorsement of negotiating positions.
- Visits by dignitaries or officials involving government hospitality may occur during the caretaker period. Dignitaries or officials whose visits are scheduled for the caretaker period or shortly afterwards should be advised of the special arrangements in place during the caretaker period and the possibility of a change of government.
Updated