New Oz PM Abbot in 'woman conundrum'

Prime Minister-elect Tony Abbott's attitude towards women has reportedly led to a shrink in the number of female candidates in his government ministry.

Since Liberal deputy leader Julie Bishop could be the only woman in the government ministry and the glaring lack of women in the coalition cabinet is concerning Abbott.

According to Sydney Morning Herald, Abbott was slammed for describing his daughters as 'not bad looking' on national television and praising the 'sex appeal' of western Sydney candidate, now MP, Fiona Scott.

Bronwyn Bishop is likely moving to the position of speaker, while Sophie Mirabella, the putative industry minister and one of just two cabinet-level female frontbenchers in Abbott's pre-election team, have withdrawn from cabinet contention.

The report said that only Julia Bishop is certain to join Abbott's cabinet as foreign minister.

The prime minister-elect is considering several women for cabinet appointments, which include West Australian Senator Michaelia Cash, Victorian MP Kelly O'Dwyer and NSW senator Marise Payne.

Abbott is also understood to be considering Senator Payne, a moderate, who has served on numerous parliamentary committees and has particularly strong experience in defence, trade and foreign affairs, the report added.