Health Minister Sussan Ley has denied the government's new hardline asylum seeker policy will apply to people currently living in Australia, a statement contradicted by Immigration Minister Peter Dutton.

On the ABC's Q&A on Monday night, Ms Ley - who is a member of cabinet - was questioned about a permanent ban on asylum seekers ever entering Australia if they arrive by boat.

The ban would apply even if asylum seekers settle in another country and seek to arrive in Australia as tourists decades later.

When asked if there were people on bridging visas in Australia who will be affected by the legislation, Ms Ley responded, "no".