We are going to wrap for tonight, and join you all again tomorrow.

Today's main headline: Kevin Rudd sensationally regained the Labor leadership from Julia Gillard, three years after she ousted him before the 2010 election.

Let's try and reduce an extraordinary day to a summary.

Today, in federal politics:

Two critical crossbenchers - Tony Windsor and Rob Oakeshott - announced they would not contest the election in September.

The Rudd forces began marshalling early in the day, circulating a petition designed to force the leadership issue.

Given the Labor leadership story had clearly entered a new phase, the cross bench players were asked about their disposition in the event of a no-confidence motion in the government.

Windsor signalled he would likely vote against Labor if Kevin Rudd returned to the leadership.

Oakeshott sat on the fence, as did Andrew Wilkie, initially. He later clarified that he'd back in Kevin Rudd.

Bob Katter said he’d support Rudd, as did Craig Thomson.

After question time, Julia Gillard announced she would call a leadership ballot at a caucus meeting at 7pm.

She challenged Kevin Rudd to step forward, and make a commitment that if he lost he'd quit politics.

He did so around 5pm, announcing he would be a contender for the Labor leadership.

Caucus met at 7pm.

Rudd prevailed in the ballot 57 votes to 45.

A strong group of ministers resigned - Wayne Swan, Stephen Conroy, Peter Garrett, Craig Emerson, Greg Combet, Joe Ludwig.

Anthony Albanese emerged as Rudd's deputy.

Penny Wong replaced Stephen Conroy as senate leader.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Deputy Anthony Albanese. The Global Mail . Photograph: Mike Bowers

Kevin Rudd with his pistol hands.

Should we be afraid? Almost certainly, yes.

Now - huge thanks to Mike Bowers for his wonderful work and to Mary and Madhvi in Sydney.

And to the readers. You people rock. Yes you do.

Let's regroup tomorrow.