The ACT government will enter its pre-election caretaker mode at midnight on Thursday, signalling the start of the formal campaign period before the October 17 election.

In normal circumstances, the territory leader would be able to focus all of their attention on the political campaign.

Conventions dictate that governments cannot make any major policy decision, appointments or sign significant contracts from the start of the caretaker period until the first sitting of the ACT Legislative Assembly following the election.

But the ongoing coronavirus pandemic will place some extra responsibility on Mr Barr, particularly if the ACT experiences a surge in infections during the campaign period.

Under an arrangement followed by NT Chief Minister Michael Gunner during his campaign for re-election in August, Mr Barr will dial in to the three meetings of Prime Minister Scott Morrison's national cabinet scheduled in the next five weeks.

But Mr Barr will be an "observer" to the cabinet's deliberations, speaking only to provide a fact-based update on the ACT's situation.

However, Mr Barr said he would still be able to continue negotiations with other states and territory leaders about establishing travel bubbles and direct flights between the jurisdictions. The Chief Minister noted that decisions about restarting flights largely rested with other states, given the ACT's borders remain open.

Should the ACT experience a surge in COVID-19 cases, or another type of emergency, Mr Barr said he would need to consult with Liberal leader Alistair Coe and Greens leader Shane Rattenbury about how to respond.

But the Chief Minister would be responsible for making the final decision.

As has been the case throughout the public health emergency, ACT chief health officer Kerryn Coleman will be responsible for the managing the territory's coronavirus restrictions, including decisions on whether to lift or impose certain measures.