Can an independent become Prime Minister?

Good question!

It could be possible but very difficult for an independent to become Prime Minister. This is because the Prime Minister is the leader of the government – the party or coalition of parties with the support of the majority of members in the House of Representatives.

An independent does not belong to a political party. To become Prime Minister, they would first need to join a formal coalition with a political party or parties and/or other independent members who had the support of the majority of the House. They would also have to be chosen as leader by this coalition. To date no independent has ever become Prime Minister.

Members sit on green benches with desks. They are listening and working on their devices.

Members working in the House of Representatives

DPS Auspic

Members working in the House of Representatives

Members sit on green benches with desks. They are listening and working on their devices.

DPS Auspic

Description

Members speaking to each other, listening, reading or working on their devices in the House of Representatives.

Permission should be sought from DPS AUSPIC for third-party or commercial uses of this image. To contact DPS AUSPIC email: auspic@aph.gov.au or phone: 02 6277 3342.