Tony Abbott's conservative backers have urged the Coalition government to find the former prime minister an important public role following his ousting as the MP for Warringah by independent Zali Steggall.

Mr Abbott, a parliamentarian for 25 years and prime minister from 2013 to 2015, said on the weekend he expected to continue in public life in some way and speculation is rife about potential posts.

Tony Abbott admits defeat to independent Zali Steggall for the seat of Warringah on Saturday. Credit:Jessica Hromas

Roger Corbett, a former Woolworths chief executive and the president of Mr Abbott's electorate conference in the lead-up to Saturday's election, said the outgoing MP had an "extremely good intellect" and would be offered many opportunities in his post-parliamentary life.

"It’s going to be up to Scott Morrison, of course, as Prime Minister, but I do hope that Tony is offered something that’s a worthwhile type of appointment," Mr Corbett said.