Kevin Rudd has now formally resigned from Parliament but by delaying his official resignation until the end of this week the former prime minister has ensured the byelection for his Queensland seat will be deferred until 2014.

Mr Rudd's decision has annoyed the Abbott government who wanted an election for his seat of Griffith to be held as soon as possible.

Strategic timing: Kevin Rudd has now formally resigned. Credit:Andrew Meares

The Coalition will run the high-profile candidate, Dr Bill Glasson, who nearly toppled Mr Rudd in the recent election.