Mr Turnbull is reportedly considering whether to stand again at this year's federal election.

He has apparently ruled out quitting the Liberals and forming a new political party, but has contemplated standing as an independent.

Mr Turnbull was dumped by his party as leader after internal disagreements over its climate-change policy spilled into the public arena.

Rather than bow out gracefully, Mr Turnbull continued to cause ructions.

Just this month, Mr Turnbull said the Coalition policy was "a recipe for fiscal recklessness".

Such comments do nothing to help the Opposition in its own attacks on the government.

While some will see it as admirable that Mr Turnbull speaks his mind, others would wish he keep his views for the party room and support the team in public.

If he can't do that, then it would be in the best interests of the party if he were to stand aside.