The ministry was the first of two consecutive occasions when the Government was led by Heffron, as Premier.

Heffron was first elected to the New South Wales Legislative Assembly in 1930 and served continuously until 1968, representing the seats of Botany and Maroubra.

The following day, Heffron was elected as Labor Leader and became Premier, retaining Cahill's ministry intact.

[3] The ministry also proposed to abolish the Legislative Council of New South Wales, however the 1961 referendum was rejected, with only 42.4% support.

[4] This ministry covers the period from 28 October 1959 until 14 March 1962,[5] when Heffron led Labor to victory at the 1962 state election.