Understanding the caretaker period: what It means for the community sector

With an election on the horizon, you may have heard the term "caretaker period" thrown around in government circles. But what does it actually mean, and how does it impact the work of the community sector?

This article breaks down the essentials, including what governments can and can't do during this period and how community sector organisations can use this time strategically.

What is the caretaker period?

The caretaker period begins when the Governor-General (or Governor in the case of the states) dissolves the lower house of parliament ahead of an election. The existing government enters a "caretaker mode" and is expected to follow established conventions that prevent it from making significant decisions that could bind a future government.

While these conventions are not legally enforceable, they are generally respected across political lines to maintain stability and fairness during the transition of power. The public service also shifts to a neutral stance, suspending public communications such as government-run community service announcements and social media updates.

What can and can't governments do in caretaker mode?

During the caretaker period, routine government business continues but major decisions - particularly those of a more political nature- are put on hold. Governments are supposed to avoid:

• making major policy decisions that would bind an incoming government.
• announcing significant funding commitments, except where they fall within the "ordinary scope of government" operations.
• making high-level public appointments unless essential for the proper functioning of government.
• entering into major contracts or agreements unless legally or commercially unavoidable.
• engaging in international negotiations that could limit the policy flexibility of an incoming government.

Implications for the Community Sector

For organisations reliant on government funding, the caretaker period can feel uncertain. Large new grants or long-term funding agreements are unlikely to be approved, although short-term extensions may be granted to ensure continuity of essential services.

Similarly, any new policy commitments from government departments are unlikely to be made public until after the election. Election promises made my political parties are campaign commitments – not formal government policy.

The opportunities of caretaker mode

While some doors temporarily close, the caretaker period presents unique opportunities for the community sector to engage with government and opposition in meaningful ways.

Engage with the public service

• Government departments continue to function and will be preparing detailed briefings (known as the "Red and Blue books") for whichever party wins the election.
• Public servants may have more time and be receptive to research, reports or proposals that could influence future policy directions.
• This can be an ideal time to reintroduce ideas that were previously dismissed due to political sensitivities.

Strengthen political relationships

• Engage with candidates from all major parties, not just those currently in government.
• Map key political supporters and detractors to refine your advocacy strategy.
• Offer policy insights or sector expertise to political candidates and parties, ensuring your organisation is seen as a valuable resource.

Prepare for the post-election landscape

• Develop briefing materials that outline key priorities for a new or returning government.
• Position your organisation as an expert in your field by providing costings, data and impact assessments that can help shape policy.
• Research the election commitments and priorities of all major parties and be ready to respond to new policy directions as soon as a government is formed.

Event protocols and political engagement

If you are hosting events involving politicians during caretaker period, it’s important to be aware of the specific protocols around political engagement. These include:

• If an MP is invited to an event, ensure their main opponent is also given the opportunity to attend.
• If both a sitting MP and a candidate are present, tradition dictates that the sitting MP is introduced first and given the first speaking opportunity.
• Avoid hosting politically charged events that could be perceived as aligning with one party over another.

A word of caution: don't leave engagement too late

One key takeaway: if you're only just reaching out to MPs and candidates during caretaker, you're too late. Politicians will be in full campaign mode, focused on media appearances and voter contact rather than new stakeholder meetings.

Long-term advocacy and relationship-building are key. Today's candidates are tomorrow's MPs, ministers and committee chairs. If you only engage with decision-makers when you need something, your approach may be seen as transactional rather than constructive.

Final thoughts

Caretaker is not a time to sit back - it's a critical period for strategic engagement. By understanding the conventions, leveraging opportunities to engage with the public service and building relationships across the political spectrum, community organisations can set themselves up for success regardless of the election outcome.

Going into caretaker mode with a plan, mapped stakeholders and valuable insights will ensure your organisation has a seat at the table when the new government - whoever it may be - starts making decisions that impact your sector.

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