PM heaps praise on backbencher Abbott

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has talked up the legacy of his predecessor Tony Abbott, as the former leader took his place on the backbench.

Former frontbenchers Tony Abbott and Joe Hockey have seats next to each other on the back bench. (AAP)

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has heaped praise on Tony Abbott as his predecessor watched on from the backbench.

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten sought to make political mischief out of Mr Abbott's first parliamentary appearance since being toppled a month ago by asking Mr Turnbull if the former Liberal leader had so many good qualities why was he overthrown.

Mr Turnbull was "delighted" to again praise Mr Abbott, as he did at a NSW Liberal Party council meeting at the weekend, saying he brought to "an end the most dysfunctional government in Australia's history".