Abbott says voters would feel 'ripped off' if plebiscite is scrapped

Former prime minister Tony Abbott says voters will feel "ripped off" if the same-sex marriage plebiscite is scrapped.

Mr Abbott said conservatives would be better able to accept a change of the definition of marriage if it came from the whole people rather than an "easily lobbied" parliament.

He told Sky News on Wednesday he really doesn't want a change, but can understand those who do including his gay sister Christine Forster.