SOUTHERN Highlands MP Peta Seaton is poised to become a major mover and shaker on the New South Wales shadow frontbench following birthday boy John Brogden's sudden elevation to Liberal Party leadership.

Mr Brogden celebrated his 33rd birthday yesterday morning when he defeated Kerry Chikarovski by a single vote.

He got the job 15 votes to 14 in a secret party room ballot.

Opposition legal affairs spokesman Chris Hartcher won the deputy leader position 11 votes to nine.

The successful coup - orchestrated by five MPs on Monday including Member for Southern Highlands Ms Seaton - comes 12 months out from the next election.

A jubilant Ms Seaton yesterday afternoon told the Southern Highland News the party has now got what it takes to assume government.

"John has always said that we needed a fresh approach and new energy and we've got that now," she said.

Ms Seaton maintained the party is united despite the closeness of the ballot.

"There is overwhelming support ... everyone is determined to get together to provide a strong alternative."

Ms Seaton, the party's insurance and small business spokeswoman, hinted at a frontbench reshuffle that could involve her.

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A more senior portfolio - or some other form political credit - would be reward for Ms Seaton's enduring support of Mr Brogden, the Member for Pittwater.

"I have been a supporter of his ever since we were both elected on the same day in 1996," Ms Seaton said.

"John has got many arrangements to make and I will work with him in whatever role."

Mr Brogden has already indicated he would like Mrs Chikarovski and former leader Peter Collins on the frontbench.

"This wasn't a personal battle, this wasn't me versus Kerry and her grace and style clearly showed that," he said.

"She performed brilliantly in the party room and that's the way it works."

Ms Seaton also praised the "grace" displayed by her former leader.

Mrs Chikarovski said; "Obviously, I am disappointed with the result but having said that, I've said all along that the Liberal Party is a democracy". The party's community services spokesman Brad Hazzard said Mrs Chikarovski was "gusty" to allow a secret ballot despite saying earlier she would push for a show of hands.