It succeeded the Chalk Ministry on 8 August 1968 as part of a series of events following the death of former Premier Jack Pizzey on 31 July.

Max Hodges was appointed to fill the cabinet vacancy caused by Jack Pizzey's death, and the roles vacated by Bjelke-Petersen on becoming Premier.

Sir Alan Fletcher and Douglas Tooth retired from politics and left the ministry, while Wally Rae was appointed Agent-General of Queensland on 6 December.

The following day, a meeting of 48 of the 49 National members was convened, and a spill motion was carried 39–8, after which a ballot was held for the leadership, which was won by Mike Ahern.

Ahern phoned the Governor and arranged to forward a document signed by 47 members to Government House supporting his leadership.

On 1 December, after significant pressure and realising his position, Bjelke-Petersen resigned, and an hour later, all ministers' commissions were terminated and a two-man Ahern Ministry was sworn in.