Parliamentary standing orders are set for an overhaul as the Abbott government looks to unwind participatory reforms negotiated under Julia Gillard's leadership after the 2010 ''hung Parliament'' election.

Crossbench MPs are concerned the changes, which are yet to be unveiled, could see the return of a winner-takes-all mentality to the way Parliament is run.

So far the government is keeping its cards close to its chest but nervous MPs say the signs are not encouraging. They say the Coalition has already thumbed its nose at the spirit of the 2010 reforms, which were designed to improve the perceived impartiality of the parliamentary umpire.

The Speaker to be, NSW Liberal Bronwyn Bishop, will be installed as the first matter of business once Parliament opens on Tuesday.

The prominent veteran has already indicated that she will not withdraw from the Liberal Party's weekly party-room meetings once she takes the chair.