The ministry was the third of four consecutive occasions when the Government was led by Cahill, as Premier.

Cahill was first elected to the New South Wales Legislative Assembly in 1925 and served until 1932, representing the seats of St George and Arncliffe before being defeated.

Having served continuously as Secretary for Public Works in the first, second, and third ministries of Jim McGirr, when Deputy Premier Jack Baddeley resigned, Cahill was appointed as McGirr's deputy on 21 September 1949.

[1] Cahill led Labor to victory at the 1953 state election, gaining 11 seats and regaining its majority.

[2] The 1956 state election was a clear victory for Labor despite a net loss of 7 seats.