Robertson ministry (1885–86)
The fifth Robertson ministry was the 22nd ministry of the Colony of New South Wales, and was led by the Premier, the Honourable Sir John Robertson KCMG. It was the fifth and final occasion that Robertson was Premier. Robertson was elected in the first free elections for the New South Wales Legislative Assembly held in March 1856.
There was no party system in New South Wales politics until 1887. Under the constitution, ministers were required to resign to recontest their seats in a by-election when appointed. These by-elections are only noted when the minister was defeated; in general, he was elected unopposed.
This ministry covers the period from 22 December 1885 until 25 February 1886, when Robertson's government faltered due to the destablishing influence of his old foe, Sir Henry Parkes. Robertson was succeeded as Premier by Sir Patrick Jennings, and retired from parliament in June 1886.
