New PM

Morrison spoke to reporters last night, saying he had conceded to Albanese.

"It's a difficult night for Liberals and Nationals around the country, as nights like this always are.

"They are humbling, but so is victory. Victory is also humbling and always should be.

"Tonight, I've spoken to the Leader of the Opposition and the incoming Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and I've congratulated him on his election victory."

In an emotional statement, she said she had done her best to deliver Brexit and it was a matter of "deep regret" that she had been unable to do so.

Mrs May said she would continue to serve as PM while a Conservative leadership contest took place.

The party said it hoped a new leader could be in place by the end of July.

It means Mrs May will still be prime minister when US President Donald Trump makes his state visit to the UK at the start of June.

This follows Monday's parliamentary vote of no-confidence which ousted Manasseh Sogavare as prime minister.

A notice has been issued by the Acting Governor General for parliament to convene next week.

Ajilon Nasiu said nominations must be made by 4:00pm this Friday.

Meanwhile, two main groups lobbying to form the new government have set up camps in Honiara hotels ahead of the vote.

Mr Sogavare's group, which lost the no-confidence vote by 27 votes to 23 in the 50-seat parliament, is now claiming to have a majority again.