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

McKell was first elected to the New South Wales Legislative Assembly in 1917 and served continuously until 1947, when he resigned to become the 12th Governor-General of Australia.

[1][2] McKell led Labor to victory at the 1941 state election, defeating the United Australia Party / Country Party coalition of Alexander Mair and Michael Bruxner.

This ministry covers the period from 16 May 1941 until 8 June 1944,[3][4] when the 1944 state election saw McKell re-elected for a subsequent term.

The composition of the ministry was announced by Premier McKell on 16 May 1941 and covers the full term of government, until 8 June 1944.