Nationals lay leader change groundwork

As Warren Truss considers his parliamentary future, Nationals colleagues are sizing up a replacement leadership team.

Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss. Source: AAP

Federal Nationals MPs are preparing for a leadership transition, but won't be pushing Warren Truss out the door.

Mr Truss, who has been in federal parliament since 1990, has formally nominated for his Wide Bay seat for the next election but has not yet been endorsed by Queensland's Liberal-National Party.

Victorian Nationals MP Darren Chester has spoken to colleagues about his views on a future leadership team, comprising Barnaby Joyce as leader and Luke Hartsuyker as deputy.

However, Mr Chester says Mr Truss is under no pressure to leave and his decision to retire at a time of his own choosing will be respected.

Another Nationals MP, Andrew Broad, told reporters in Canberra on Thursday Mr Joyce already had a "very full portfolio" as agriculture minister.

"Warren Truss is doing an excellent job as the leader and he will retire at a time of his choosing, but I hope he stays for quite a bit longer," Mr Broad said.

"There is a wisdom that comes with being a member of parliament for 25 years and being a cabinet minister and he brings a lot to the job."

Asked whether Mr Joyce had the same level of wisdom, Mr Broad said: "I don't know whether Barnaby Joyce has got enough wisdom. Barnaby Joyce is doing a good job in his portfolio and we've all got more to learn."

In July, Mr Joyce told the National Press Club he would "never ever" challenge Mr Truss for the leader's role.

Mr Truss is one of a small group of federal Nationals MPs yet to be formally endorsed.

But LNP officials expect to complete endorsements soon.

Veteran Queensland MP Bruce Scott's replacement in the seat of Maranoa is due to be announced on Friday.