* Dominic Perrottet - the treasurer and deputy NSW Liberal leader has long been touted as Berejiklian's most likely successor. But with moderates the majority in the party's parliamentary team, the conservative Epping MP's path to the leadership isn't clear. The 39-year-old father of six said he would speak with his family and colleagues over the coming days on "how I can best serve the people of NSW". He was first elected to parliament in 2011.

* Rob Stokes - the planning minister will also reportedly seek the leadership. Stokes, 46, has represented the seat of Pittwater on Sydney's northern beaches since 2007, where he lives with wife Sophie and three children. A moderate described as a key ally of Berejiklian, Stokes has served in a number of portfolios, including as minister for education and environment.

* Stuart Ayres - the tourism minister and Penrith MP is also considered a contender for the top job. Also the minister for Western Sydney, if voted in as party leader the 40-year-old would be the first from an area outside Sydney's north and east in almost two decades.

* Matt Kean - the environment minister is also a close ally of Berejiklian and was with her when she announced her resignation. Elected to Hornsby in 2011, Kean became one of the state's youngest parliamentarians. Now 39, he has made a name for himself in NSW politics for his passionate - and occasionally unpopular - pursuit of more ambitious climate and energy policies.

Australian Associated Press