Journalists asked the PM if he supported Gilmore MP Ann Sudmalis in a preselection battle.

“Ann is a phenomenal candidate, member, advocate, she has been supported again and again by the people of Gilmore,” Mr Turnbull said.

“Look, we’re going to have a new bridge, who did that? Ann Sudmalis, whose advocacy, whose persistence did that, who galvanised and channeled the support of the community to demonstrate that amidst all of the priorities, and there are many for infrastructure, this is the key one here.

“It’s thanks to her persuasiveness and commitment.”

Earlier in the week, a senior Liberal party source confirmed speculation Mrs Sudmalis would be challenged for her seat at preselection before the next election.

“Of course she’s going to be challenged, and of course there’s going to be a preselection,” the source said.

“It’s a good thing.”

Liberal Party member Grant Schultz from Milton, the son of prominent Howard government MP Alby Schultz, was named as the likely challenger on Tuesday.

“His foray into the FIX IT NOW campaign isn’t just about roads, it’s about building his profile,” the Liberal party source said.

“He hasn’t had the benefit of being on local council or working for an MP, he needs a platform.”

Mr Schultz declined to comment on the matter.

Mrs Sudmalis shot off an email to Liberal Party members in her electorate on Wednesday, to assure them she wants to keep her role in parliament.

“There are rumours regarding my nomination for preselection,” she said.

“This short email is to reassure you that I am nominating for preselection.

“I look forward to your continued support and I look forward to winning the next election and returning to government.”

The two-term MP is sitting in one of the most marginal seats in the nation.