Two of the four MPs in whose hands the outcome of the Australian election rests say they're hopeful a decision can be made by the end of the week on the make-up of the next government.
The four MPs are currently negotiating with Labor and the Coalition over who will form a minority government, after both failed to win the 76 seats necessary to govern alone.
Two of them, Andrew Wilkie and Tony Windsor, say they aim to make their decision on whom they will support this week.
"We're entering into a range of meetings this week," Mr Windsor told Channel Ten, the ABC reports. "I would hope that by the end of the week we should be able to make a decision."
Mr Windsor also told ABC1's Insiders programme, however, that "it could take a little bit longer than that".
'10% chance' of fresh election
He also said there is a small chance - "probably a 10% chance" - that Australia will go back to the polls.
"I don't think it is likely," he added, "because I think there is genuine intent on behalf of both of the leaders to actually try to make something work."
Mr Wilkie is also keen to see an outcome, telling Channel Nine that he will make his decision "very soon".
"I would hope to make my decision Tuesday or Wednesday - that's what the people want," he said.
"I'm well aware that stability is very important: there is already a restlessness in the community that it's over a week since the election and we're still to know who is going to govern Australia for the next three years."
Meetings with both leaders
Mr Wilkie says he would be "very surprised" if the political situation takes a fortnight to resolve.
He says he will meet Opposition Leader Tony Abbott on Monday afternoon and then hold more talks with Prime Minister Julia Gillard immediately after.
Mr Windsor and the two other incumbent independents, Robb Oakeshott and Bob Katter, have acted together so far in negotiations.
While the trio say they will make their minds up independently, they presented a list of requests to Mr Abbott and Ms Gillard last week.
