Federal Opposition leader Brendan Nelson says he has no plans this weekend to speak with Peter Costello to sound out the former treasurer's potential leadership aspirations.
Mr Costello returns on Saturday from a family holiday in the Pacific amid speculation Dr Nelson will face an immanent leadership challenge.
"No I don't," Dr Nelson said when asked by reporters if he planned to seek talks with Mr Costello.
"He is returning from a holiday, he has had leave, Peter Costello and I meet regularly to discuss a whole variety of things."
Dr Nelson said he was confident he retained the full support of his party.
"Yes, I most certainly am (confident)," Dr Nelson said.
Mr Costello is yet to state whether he intends to retire from federal politics and he is sitting on the opposition's backbench.
"Peter Costello has earned the right to make the decision about his future with his own family, in the best interests of both them and the people of Higgins," Dr Nelson said.
"I would be very happy for Peter Costello to stay on in the parliament, and if he chooses to do so, he will be immediately on the frontbench.
"But that's his choice, his decision, and he'll make it in good time."
Dr Nelson spoke with reporters before he was to address a special meeting of the NSW Division of the Liberal Party in Sydney's west on Saturday.
