Former Speaker Peter Slipper and arch-rival Mal Brough kept their distance when they came face to face for one of the first times since the James Ashby sex scandal.
They did not shake hands before sitting apart at a "meet the candidates" event hosted by a local chamber of commerce at Maleny in Mr Slipper's Sunshine Coast seat of Fisher on Tuesday.
The rivals also stood well apart when all candidates were asked to stand together for a photo.
Mr Slipper, accompanied by his wife, told reporters at the event there was a lot he'd like to say about Mr Brough's involvement in bringing a sexual harassment case against him.
Former staffer James Ashby's court case against Mr Slipper was thrown out by Federal Court judge Steven Rares in December.
Justice Rares said Mr Ashby "pursued a political attack" against his former boss "in combination" with others, including Mr Brough.
Mr Slipper said the key point was that it was "something organised by Mr Brough."
Mr Brough, the LNP's candidate for Fisher, avoided the topic and when asked if it would hurt his election chances said voters would select the best party and individual.
"I have faith in their ability to make the right choice," he said.
He said he didn't care if Mr Slipper ran or not.
"I'm here to do my job and I will let Peter Slipper look after himself.
"In 12 months there has only been one candidate on the ground and only one not taking the electorate for granted."
Mr Slipper is still refusing to confirm whether he'll recontest his seat but admitted it would be a "David versus Goliath" battle.
"My present intention is to nominate and I'll make an announcement at the appropriate time," he said.
Mr Slipper had to stand aside as speaker last year as the sex and cab voucher scandal unfolded.
He is due to face trial later this year over the alleged misuse of Cabcharge dockets. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
"I believe I've done nothing wrong," Mr Slipper said.
"There is a process where members might have a disagreement with the department of finance in relation to spending."
He said some members, including Opposition Leader Tony Abbott have had to pay money back.
"Tony Abbott had to pay close to $10,000 back and Peter Reith $50,000 back.
"I wonder why they are pursuing me for $964."
