Tim Nicholls has been announced as the new Liberal National Party leader in Queensland, after defeating Lawrence Springborg and Tim Mander in a leadership spill.

Mr Mander was knocked out in the first round of voting, receiving only 10 votes, to Mr Springborg’s 17 and Mr Nicholls’ 14.

In the second and final round, Mr Nicholls secured 22 to Mr Springborg’s 19.

Whip Ian Rickuss said the party was ready to unite behind the new leader, despite the close result.

“I think it is and it just shows the quality of the candidates we actually had running,” Mr Rickuss told reporters this morning.

Nanango MP Deb Frecklington has emerged as Queensland’s new Deputy Opposition Leader after being elected unopposed.

– with other agencies