Turnbull far outpolls Abbott on security

A poll shows Malcolm Turnbull is far preferred over Tony Abbott when it comes to national security.

Malcolm Turnbull (pic) is far preferred over Tony Abbott when it comes to national security. (AAP)

When it comes to national security, Australians feel much safer having Malcolm Turnbull in charge than Tony Abbott.

A new Seven News-ReachTel poll of 3144 people across the country shows 74 per cent opted for Mr Turnbull, against 26 per cent for Mr Abbott.

The rating is consistent over all age groups from teens to those over 65, but more women (76.4 per cent) than men (71.4 per cent) felt safer under Mr Turnbull.

The poll comes at the end of a fortnight in which national security featured prominently.

This included the Paris terror attacks on November 13 and Mr Turnbull's well-received national security statement this week.

It also follows what appears to be a difference between the two men on Australia's role in the fight against the Islamic State group in Syria and Iraq.

Mr Abbott pushed for a stronger "boots on the ground" presence while Mr Turnbull has warned against gestures and machismo.

The poll also shows the coalition extending its two-party preferred lead over Labor to 55-45 per cent.