Tony Abbott fronts media after being ousted as Prime Minister

TONY Abbott has fronted the media for the first time since being defeated by Malcolm Turnbull in a leadership spill overnight.

“My pledge today is to make this change as easy as I can,” Mr Abbott said.

“There will be no wrecking, no undermining, and no sniping. I’ve never leaked or backgrounded against anyone. And I certainly won’t start now.”

“Our country deserves better than that. I want our government and our country to succeed. I always have and I always will.”

“I’ve consistently said in opposition and in government that being the Prime Minister is not an end in itself; it’s about the people you serve.”

“The great privilege that I have had is to see the wonder of this country like few others. And I want to thank the Australian people for giving me the honour to serve.”

“Yes, this is a tough day, but when you join the game, you accept the rules.”

Abbott was defeated 54-44 in a party room vote on Monday night.