Howard grieves for lost mates

John Howard has praised Malcolm Turnbull for running a strong campaign, but expressed disappointment for lost colleagues.

Former PM John Howard is disappointed for Liberal colleagues who have lost their seat in parliament. (AAP)

Former prime minister John Howard is disappointed for Liberal colleagues who have lost their seat in parliament.

"It looks as though a number of people I know very well have lost and I grieve for them," he told reporters as he arrived at the official Liberal Party election night event at Sydney's Sofitel Wentworth Hotel.

Mr Howard cited the defeat of Tasmanian MP Andrew Nikolic - the member for Bass and a former brigadier of the Australian Army.

He also lamented the loss of Karen McNamara on the NSW Central Coast and former minister Jamie Briggs in his South Australian seat of Mayo.

He wished those waiting for final results the very best.

Mr Howard said he would leave it up to Mr Turnbull to discuss the overall outcome.

"He fought a very strong, clear campaign and I congratulate him for that," he said.