Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull narrowly survived a leadership challenge by rival Peter Dutton on Tuesday morning – but the saga isn’t over yet.
The prime minister had 48 votes in the Liberal party room ballot to Mr Dutton’s 35, however, a source on Mr Dutton’s side has said ‘there will be a second challenge shortly,’ reports Newscorp.
There are four scenarios that could play out in the coming weeks, including another challenge and Mr Turnbull calling an early election.
Bill Shorten (left) will be hoping for a snap election, while Peter Dutton (right) is considering mounting a new leadership challenge already
In the first scenario, Mr Turnbull says on as prime minister and goes into next year’s election without facing any further leadership challenges.
This, however, looks unlikely, with sources claiming Mr Dutton is already plotting his next move, which could be another challenge as soon as Thursday.
Another scenario could see Mr Turnbull step aside and anoint one of his key allies – such as Treasurer Scott Morrison – as his successor.
This, however, is unlikely and would also be unpopular with rebels within the Liberal party.
A snap election could also be on the cards, with Bill Shorten licking his lips at the opportunity to go to the polls.
This would be a massive gamble, and could see the Labor leader take power.
The most likely scenario to unfold is Mr Dutton challenging again as his support among the party continues to swell.
There are four scenarios that could play out in the coming weeks, including another challenge and Mr Turnbull calling an early election
Mr Turnbull was hit hit with resignations on Tuesday evening as seven frontbenchers offered to quit after they voted for Mr Dutton.
So far only those of Mr Dutton and Concetta Fierravanti-Wells have been accepted.
Frontbenchers James McGrath, Angus Taylor, Zed Seselja and Michael Sukkar, Michael Keenan and Steven Ciobo also resigned but it is understood the prime minister has not accepted these.
Backers of Mr Dutton have said with time and an organised campaign they could win a fresh challenge, having narrowly lost in the impromptu vote.
‘Dutton will win in a matter of a few days, or at worst, a few weeks,’ a Liberal MP told The Advertiser.
Mr Turnbull’s backers are staying stoic in the face of the revolt with many coming out in defence of the PM.
‘Malcolm Turnbull showed guts and strength by today putting his job on the line to ensure Australians get the stability and leadership they deserve,’ Education and Training Minister Simon Birmingham said.