Malcolm Turnbull has returned from a self-imposed exile, more than seven weeks after being dumped as Prime Minister.

The Turnbulls have been enjoying some rest and relaxation in New York following the August 24 spill motion that ended his political career.

Flanked by wife Lucy, and what appears to be a personal bodyguard, Mr Turnbull’s return to Australia is timely, in the wake of the Liberals’ huge defeat at the Wentworth by-election.

The couple was spotted by eagle-eyed Macquarie Media tech guru Stephen Fenech, who happened to be on the same flight.

Just arrived back in Australia with former PM @TurnbullMalcolm and his wife Lucy on the same flight. I think there will be a few people (like the press) waiting to meet him!! #auspol #Wentwothvotes pic.twitter.com/jecpwoIBTc

— Stephen Fenech (@StephenFenech) October 21, 2018

Mr Turnbull has been heavily criticised for refusing to endorse his successor Dave Sharma in the seat of Wentworth.

The Liberals have suffered a huge swing of 19 per cent to Independent Kerryn Phelps, costing the government its majority in the lower house.