The Greens have hailed the state election result not just for the four seats it may win but for its second-place showing in several others, where the party believes it is consolidating as voters' alternative choice in affluent parts of Sydney.

The party achieved two-party preferred swings of about 3.5 and 5.5 per cent in inner-city Balmain and Newtown. It appears to have defeated former frontbencher Penny Sharpe by 60 to 40 per cent.

Photos: James Alcock.

But the Greens have also polled above 15 per cent primary vote in 16 other seats.

"There are a number of seats where the Greens are running second," said Chris Harris, the party's NSW campaign manager. "That will continue across the next few elections."