Tony Abbott questioned by police for possible breach of Public Health Order on Sydney's Northern Beaches

Former prime minister Tony Abbott has been questioned and cleared by NSW Police over a possible breach of coronavirus restrictions.

It had been suggested by Senator Kristina Keneally that Mr Abbott – who lives in Sydney's Northern Beaches - had broken a NSW Public Health Order while cycling in the area.

But police today confirmed Mr Abbott was not in breach of the order and that he had been exercising with another individual, within the rules.

Mr Abbott lives in the southern part of the beaches region.

NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Mick Willing was asked about the possible breach this morning.

"I'm aware of that and at the end of the day, that matter was investigated," he said.

"Now, police responded to that, spoke to the former prime minister and formed the view he was not in breach of the health order as it applied at that time.

"But, you need to apply some commonsense here.

"Stay-at-home where you can, stay within your areas, like if you're in the southern part of the Northern Beaches, stay within the southern part of the Northern Beaches.

"And the same applies to the northern part."

When asked directly whether Mr Abbott had broken the rules, Mr Willing said: "He was out for a lawful excuse, exercising with another individual.

"That was checked and proven to be right."