THE Nationals are likely to get an extra front-bench spot in the Coalition.

But the position is expected to be in the outer ministry.

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The party won an extra three seats at last month's federal election, to take its total to 12.

It also had another senator elected, while the Liberals lost Senate spots.

The Weekly Times understands the increased numbers will result in another front-bench spot, although the Coalition is focusing on convincing the kingmaker Independents to help it form government.

Nationals leader Warren Truss said Cabinet positions within the Coalition were traditionally shared on the basis of the numbers each partner had.

"The Coalition agreement uses that sort of language and I'm sure that's what will happen," Mr Truss said.

The Nationals' representation on the front bench actually increased this year, when new Opposition leader Tony Abbott promoted Nationals Senate leader Barnaby Joyce.

Mr Truss also fought off criticism from Independent MP and former National Bob Katter, who accused the Nationals of having done nothing positive for regional Australia despite having "had the balance of power for 12 years".

He said the reforms the Nationals had taken part in had damaged country areas.

"I do think we need to do more for regional Australia," Mr Truss said.

"I do not accept that nothing was done for regions during that period."

Mr Truss admitted renegade West Australian National Tony Crook had said he would sit with the Nationals, but not the Liberals, and wanted "progress toward his goal" of more money to the regions.

He included Mr Crook in the Coalition's seat count.

Mr Crook said the West Australian Nationals had stood alone, won the balance of power, talked seriously to both parties and brokered a deal for much more money for regional areas.

"(They) have proved what you can achieve," Mr Crook said.

Mr Truss said the Nationals' task was "to be strong and aggressive in putting forward those needs (of country people) and seeking to have them addressed".

He said the party was "relevant", "important for the future" and had an "excellent record in government".