PRIME Minister Tony Abbott has declared Liberal colleague Sophie Mirabella has "unfinished business" in Indi if successful at the next federal election.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mr Abbott was in the electorate for the first time as Prime Minister on Friday and joined his "great comrade" Mrs Mirabella at the Spirit of Anzac centenary exhibition launch.
But he wouldn't guarantee her a front-bench position if she was able to reclaim the seat from independent Cathy McGowan.
Mr Abbott added Mrs Mirabella would learn from the ill-fated 2013 election when she had to forego a cabinet position because of her defeat.
"I've known Sophie for well over a quarter of a century and she is a great comrade," Mr Abbott said.
"It would be nice to have her back in the parliament."
Mr Abbott said Mrs Mirabella's decision to campaign around the country in her role as opposition industry leader helped her rivals at the last election.
The Prime Minister conceded the Liberals would be taking nothing for granted at the next election due in 2016.
"It is always a tough fight to win back a seat," he said.
"If you want a very effective member of parliament it is important to have someone who is part of a government.
"We won't be taking anything for granted.
"I know Sophie and Sophie is someone with a deep yearning to represent her community.
"She has been the member for Indi for the best part of 15 years.
"There is unfinished business obviously here in Indi.
"I was always expecting Sophie to want to have another go."
Mr Abbott was conspicuous by his absence in the lead-up to the 2013 election, but flagged his intention to visit Indi again before the next poll.
Mr Abbott was flanked by Mrs Mirabella and member for Farrer Sussan Ley at a press conference after the Spirit of Anzac exhibition opening.
The Prime Minister then headed for Albury to a morning tea hosted by Ms Ley at the Albury Club.
The morning tea was attended by volunteers from community organisations including PCYC, RSL, show society, CWA, Lions, Riding for the Disabled, Rotary, Red Cross, SES and St John Ambulance.
Mr Abbott paid tribute to their work in the community.
“The Prime Minister's schedule is always tight, so to have him drop in, even for just an hour or so, was very much appreciated," Ms Ley said.
"Many people make up their mind about the Prime Minister through the media.
"The Tony Abbott I know is a very decent guy and I think anyone who attended will have come away with much the same opinion.”."