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

Robertson was the leader of the government until March 1877 when he was unable to obtain supply and resigned, replaced by Henry Parkes.

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

Only Thomas Garrett (Camden) and Ezekiel Baker (Goldfields South) were re-elected unopposed.

[7][9] Parkes did not obtain a majority either and the subsequent government was formed by James Farnell as a compromise Premier.