Rudd, Gillard could beat Abbott term as PM

Tony Abbott would have served as prime minister for a shorter time than either Kevin Rudd or Julia Gillard if he loses the Liberal leadership to Malcolm Turnbull.

Mr Abbott has served in the role for a year and 360 days.

Mr Rudd's tenure lasted two years and 286 days over two periods, while Ms Gillard had three years and three days in the top job.

It would make Mr Abbott the 10th shortest-serving prime minister in Australia's history.

Labor's Frank Forde had the shortest career in the top job, lasting seven days in 1945.