Peter Dutton breaks cover as he is seen for first time since losing his seat and the federal election

Peter Dutton has been seen in public for the first time since losing his seat and the federal election.

Peter Dutton has returned to Canberra for the first time since Saturday night’s election wipe-out.

The former opposition leader flew into Canberra Airport on a domestic Qantas flight early Wednesday afternoon.

He arrived to a small media contingent and declined to answer questions about the future of the Coalition, stating it was a matter for the party.

He also declined to reveal why he was in Canberra.

“I think the model for me will be to lead a graceful silence,” he joked.

Peter Dutton returned to Canberra on Wednesday afternoon. Picture: NewsWire/ Martin Ollman

He landed at early Wednesday afternoon. Picture: NewsWire / Martin Ollman

Asked how he was feeling after Saturday’s results, he said: “I’m very good, thank you”.

Mr Dutton lost his north Brisbane seat of Dickson, which he had held for 24 years, within hours of polls closing on Saturday.

Labor’s Ali France, contesting the seat for the third time, took more than 55 per cent of the two candidate preferred vote and will become the area’s new representative in Parliament.

The former Opposition Leader’s individual result was only part of what became a devastating night for the Coalition, who were soundly defeated by Labor.

At the time of writing, Labor has won 90 seats to the Coalition’s 40, with only 10 still in doubt.

He declined to answer questions on the future of the Liberal party. Picture: NewsWire/ Martin Ollman

Mr Dutton also declined to reveal why he was in Canberra. Picture: NewsWire / Martin Ollman

The ousted Opposition Leader was seen putting his suitcase in the boot of a waiting Commonwealth car himself. Picture: NewsWire / Martin Ollman

Mr Dutton said he was looking forward to spending quality time with family and friends following the disastrous election result.

“I feel there are lots of opportunities but most importantly, to spend some time with family and friends and that’s about it,” he said

“But as I said, the easiest thing for former leaders to do is maintain a graceful silence so I’ll leave that to others.”

Exiting the airport, Mr Dutton thanks his supporters for their “generous” comments and said he was “grateful” for their support.

“So thank you very much to all those who offered their good wishes,” he said.

While Mr Dutton appeared to have travelled alone, he met his ministerial staff at the gates.

Exiting the airport with his security detail, Mr Dutton got into the back seat of a Commonwealth car but opted to place his luggage in the boot himself.

Originally published as Peter Dutton breaks cover as he is seen for first time since losing his seat and the federal election