A message to all APS staff on the federal election and caretaker period

Colleagues,

As you would know, the Prime Minister has announced a federal election will be held on ​Saturday 3 May 2025.

The caretaker period commenced with the dissolution of the House of Representatives this morning. It will continue until the election result is clear, or if there is a change of government, until the new government is appointed by the Governor‑General.

During the caretaker period, successive governments have followed a series of practices, known as the caretaker conventions, which allow the business of government and ordinary matters of administration to continue, although the Government avoids:

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

In the event such decisions are urgently required, the relevant minister would usually consult the Opposition before any decisions are made.

The conventions support practices that are intended to preserve the apolitical nature of the Australian Public Service and avoid the use of Australian Government resources in a manner that may advantage a particular political party while recognising the need for the day-to-day business of government to continue during the caretaker period.

You should ensure you are familiar with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions advice for the appropriate handling of business by Australian Government agencies during the caretaker period. Consistent with the conventions, you should continue to serve the Government with the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and dedication.

As APS employees, we must at all times behave in a way that upholds the APS Values and Employment Principles and the integrity and good reputation of the APS. Please remind yourself of these key obligations. The APS Values and Code of Conduct in Practice provides helpful guidance. We must also take care to ensure how we express personal, social, or political views does not disrupt workplace harmony or politicise the work environment. For example, this prohibits bringing political material into the workplace, distributing political material in the workplace, creating political publications using APS resources or when at work, or wearing and displaying political material in the workplace.

It’s important, too, to be mindful that actions you take in a private capacity can undermine public perceptions of your professional role and the integrity of the APS.

This includes social media use, where private actions can have widereaching effects beyond our control. The Australian Public Service Commission’s Social Media Guidance can help you understand the risks of social media engagement, and balance your rights as a citizen with your obligations as a public servant.

If you need further advice on the APS Values and Code of Conduct please contact ethics@apsc.gov.au. For caretaker advice, please contact your internal caretaker team. If further guidance is required, questions can be directed to Government Division in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet by email caretaker@pmc.gov.au.

Thank you for your ongoing work and commitment.