Prime Minister Tony Abbott will be rolled by his party, possibly within two weeks, a political commentator says.
Paul Williams, a senior lecturer in politics at Griffith University, says Mr Abbott's leadership is now in terminal decline.
He says backbencher Mal Brough appears to have been tapped to bring the leadership issue to a head, and facilitate the real challenge by Julie Bishop and Malcolm Turnbull.
"I think Tony Abbott will be removed and possibly within the next couple of weeks," Dr Williams told AAP.
"The NSW Libs are angling to get rid of him so the Queensland and Victorian disease does not affect the NSW election."
He said Mr Brough would have the "unpleasant duty of either tapping Tony, or making public comment which will break the silence".
"He may be pilloried for broaching the the unaskable question, but once it's asked, the cat's out of the bag and the real contenders such as Turnbull and Bishop can then step in without being charged with disloyalty."
Dr Williams said Ms Bishop would likely beat Mr Turnbull in any leadership contest because she enjoyed both popular and party room support.
One of Mr Abbott's senior backers, Attorney-General George Brandis, has insisted there's no appetite within the coalition to change leaders.
He repeatedly said on Sunday the cabinet and party room were united behind Mr Abbott.
Ms Bishop and Mr Turnbull have reportedly pledged not to challenge.
Share
