The government is formally presided over by the governor, who exercises executive authority granted by the state's constitution through the Executive Council, a body consisting of senior cabinet ministers.

In reality, both the governor and the Executive Council are largely ceremonial, with the premier and ministers having control over policy, appointments, and other executive orders made by the governor.

Both systems and principles of governance have developed out of the United Kingdom, to which Victoria was previously a colony.

In practice, executive power is exercised by the premier, appointed by the governor, provided they can command the support of a majority of members of the Legislative Assembly.

The Cabinet is the de facto chief policy making organ and consists of the premier and all ministers.