The title of Premier was widely used to refer to the Leader of Government, but not enshrined in formal use until 1920.

Under the constitution, ministers were required to resign to recontest their seats in a by-election when appointed.

Hargrave had resigned as a judge of the District Court and the member for East Camden, Robert Owen, was appointed to replace him.

This ministry covers the period from 7 September 1857 until on 26 October 1859, when Cowper resigned his commission, having lost an educational bill.

[4] During the period of this ministry, there were many arrangements, with no fewer than 13 men holding the seven positions in its life of just over two years.