Labor had 64 MPs in the chamber, meaning Mr O'Brien and at least two other Nationals voted against the government.

"As a country policeman, I find it incredible that I can walk into this place and take part in this," Mr O'Brien said.

"It's an honour to serve the people of Wide Bay and it will be an honour to serve this house as Deputy Speaker."

Despite angering Coalition colleagues, Mr O'Brien has secured a more than $40,000 pay rise by becoming one of two deputy speakers in the House of Representatives.

“There is no shortage of government members in this house to ensure that we continue to deliver for the people of Australia,” Mr Morrison said after losing the vote.

After the tactical victory, reminiscent of treachery by Peter Slipper and Mal Colston, Labor leader Anthony Albanese slammed the government.

"No amount of marketing or spin can hide the humiliation for the government. I congratulate the Member for Wide Bay on receiving such strong support from his colleagues in the House of Representatives.

"We have just seen the stability of the Coalition on all of you, on full view, for everyone to see."

Mr O'Brien said on Monday he planned to sit in the joint Coalition party room in Canberra and no longer attend Nationals' meetings.

He has committed to voting with the government on supply bills, meaning Mr Morrison's governing majority remains unchanged.

Mr O'Brien voted for Mr Joyce last week and was among MPs threatening to cross the floor to block government legislation.