Exit poll shows strong vote for Phelps

The Liberal Party's vote in Wentworth has collapsed, making it likely independent candidate Kerryn Phelps will win the by-election.

Preliminary results of the Australia Institute' exit poll taken on Saturday show Ms Phelps will return a strong primary vote, taking votes from the Liberals, Greens and Labor.

The Liberal vote has dropped significantly, with addressing climate change and replacing coal with renewable energy a factor in 78 per cent of voter's decisions.