Abbott has contribution to make: Bishop

Deputy Liberal leader Julie Bishop thinks it's unlikely Tony Abbott will find himself with a frontbench spot in the new Turnbull ministry.

Tony Abbott still has a contribution to make to government but that isn't necessarily as a minister, his former deputy says.

Deputy Liberal leader Julie Bishop said Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull had indicated he would only make minimal changes to his ministry to accommodate the Nationals and three frontbenchers who lost their jobs.

"Of course (Mr Abbott) has a contribution to make to the government, but there are many ways that a contribution can be made," she told ABC TV.