Do the Prime Minister and ministers keep their positions during an election period?

Yes, during a federal election period, the Prime Minister and ministers keep their positions.

When the Governor-General closes the Australian Parliament for a federal election, the government enters a ‘caretaker period’. During this period, the government continues to manage the day-to-day running of the country. However, it does not make any major decisions without first talking to the opposition who could become the next government if it wins the election.

The caretaker period lasts until the election result is known. If a new government is elected the Governor-General will commission – formally appoint – a new Prime Minister and ministers. If the existing government is re-elected, the current Prime Minister and ministers are re-commissioned by the Governor-General.