The prime minister has confirmed Linda Reynolds and Christian Porter will remain in cabinet, even though a reshuffle is looming.
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Senator Reynolds is expected to be dumped from the defence portfolio over her handling of rape allegations raised by former staffer Brittany Higgins.
Mr Porter is likely to lose the attorney-general's portfolio as he sues the ABC over its reporting of separate rape allegations, which he denies.
Scott Morrison has indicated both ministers will still feature on his frontbench line-up, with the reshuffle expected within days.
This is despite the prime minister repeatedly admonishing Senator Reynolds for her "disgraceful" response to the alleged rape, when she called Ms Higgins a "lying cow".
Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton, who is likely to replace her in the defence portfolio, denied Mr Morrison was afraid to sack her.
"I don't think the PM is afraid to sack anyone if they've done the wrong thing," Mr Dutton told the Nine Network on Friday.
He said Senator Reynolds had done an outstanding job in defence and provided what she believed was enough support to Ms Higgins.
Mr Dutton also dug in behind the embattled attorney-general.
"The prime minister has been very clear that he wants them to remain in cabinet and I think that's appropriate," he said.
It is speculated Employment Minister Michaelia Cash will be the new attorney-general, with Mr Porter switching to her portfolio.
The University of London honours graduate and former Freehills solicitor would be only the second woman to hold the position.
Her elevation would also make history in that the nation's two most senior law positions - attorney-general and High Court chief justice - would be held by women.
Government Services Minister Stuart Robert is tipped to take on Mr Dutton's home affairs role.
Labor deputy leader Richard Marles said while Senator Reynolds made appalling comments about Ms Higgins, it appeared she was being hung out to dry.
Mr Marles said senior members of the prime minister's office knew about the rape allegations and did nothing for two years.
He also pointed out if Mr Dutton became defence minister, he would be the sixth in eight years.
"So they're running at an average of one every 16 months. Is there any wonder the submarine program is in such a shambles?"
Mr Porter is set to return from stress leave next week, while Senator Reynolds is due back at work on April 2.
Australian Associated Press
