The SAS Groups Guide to Navigating Caretaker Mode

On Tuesday, 1 October 2024, the Queensland state government officially entered caretaker mode as preparations for the upcoming election ramp up. This period, which begins 26 days prior to the election, is designed to ensure that government operations remain neutral and do not unduly influence the electoral process. For businesses and organisations in Queensland that work with the government, it is important to understand the implications of caretaker mode to ensure your business can continue to thrive.

Caretaker mode is a standard practice adopted by governments in Australia. During this time, the government limits its decision-making powers to essential operations, avoiding any significant policy changes or announcements that could impact the upcoming election. The goal is to maintain fairness and transparency, ensuring that the electoral process is not influenced by government actions in the lead-up to the vote.

The general implications for businesses include:

1. Delays and Policy Shifts: If your operations rely on state approvals or regulatory bodies, expect potential delays, especially if there’s a change in government. This can affect timelines for regulatory decisions, approvals, or result in shifts in broader policy directions.
2. Business Impact: Significant state contracts or funding arrangements may be deferred. If these have not been finalised, they could face additional risks. It is advisable to review contracts for flexibility and prepare for delays in project approvals or funding releases.
3. Restrictions on Functions and Advice: Government agencies are limited in hosting events that could be viewed as political or providing costings and policy advice unless it pertains to day-to-day government operations.
4. Monitoring Election Promises: As political parties unveil their platforms, businesses should keep a close eye on proposed policies that could impact their operations. Understanding the commitments made by each party will be crucial for strategic planning moving forward.

During the caretaker period, there are several proactive steps businesses can take to minimise disruption and maintain alignment with both government processes and potential policy shifts. These include:

• Delaying major announcements or decisions until after the election to ensure they align with government policies.
• Seeking bipartisan support for any announcements by inviting both the current minister and the shadow minister to events.
• Requesting the advice of senior officials like a Director-General where decisions may require ministerial input.

As Queensland’s largest, and one of Australia’s foremost government relations consultancies, the SAS Group is uniquely positioned to advise your business on any regulatory changes, key appointments, or emerging policy trends that may affect your operations. We maintain strategic bipartisan relationships across the political spectrum, allowing your business to stay engaged with both current government officials and potential future leaders.

The caretaker period presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses and organisations in Queensland that work with the government. While new government initiatives may be put on hold and uncertainty may impact investment decisions, this time also offers a valuable chance to engage with candidates and influence future policy direction. By staying informed and strategically positioning your organisation, you can ensure your business is prepared for whatever outcome the election brings.