Introduction

The Constitution of Queensland 2001 provides that there must be a Cabinet consisting of a Premier and other Ministers.

Cabinet is the principal decision-making body of the Queensland Government.

Cabinet's decisions are given formal effect through Acts of the Parliament, actions of the Executive Council or the executive powers held by Ministers for the administration of their portfolios.

The Queensland Cabinet Handbook (the Handbook) outlines the procedures and conventions for the operation of the Queensland Cabinet and its support processes.

The processes and procedures outlined in the Handbook are:

• designed to ensure a high degree of rigour and uniformity in developing submissions
• to provide Ministers with contestable proposals
• to allow for the highest quality collective decision-making.

The Cabinet Secretariat within the Department of the Premier and Cabinet (DPC) facilitates the operation of Cabinet and its related processes, by providing advisory and administrative support to Ministers and departments in accordance with this Handbook.

Application of this Handbook

Throughout the Handbook the term ‘Cabinet’ refers to Cabinet and Cabinet Committees, except where a section deals specifically with one or the other.

Review of this Handbook

The Handbook is reviewed periodically. Substantive updates are approved by the Premier or Cabinet. Minor administrative updates are approved by the Cabinet Secretary.

Enquiries to:

Cabinet Secretariat
Department of the Premier and Cabinet
PO Box 15185
CITY EAST  QLD  4002