Abbott 'headbutter' faces upgraded charge

Hobart DJ and self-confessed anarchist Astro Labe, who allegedly headbutted Tony Abbott, faces a charge which carries a maximum jail term of ten years.

Astro Labe has appeared in court charged with assaulting Tony Abbott in September. (AAP)

A Hobart DJ and self-confessed anarchist and Tony Abbott-hater, accused of headbutting the former prime minister, faces a new charge which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years' jail.

Astro Labe, 38, allegedly attacked Mr Abbott as he walked along the Hobart waterfront on September 21.

He was originally charged with common assault but that was altered to the federal offence of causing harm to a Commonwealth public official.

Labe didn't enter a plea at Hobart Magistrates Court on Monday and will re-appear on January 18.

Mr Abbott claimed it was an orchestrated attack as part of the same-sex marriage debate.

Labe was wearing a 'yes' sticker when he encountered Mr Abbott but insisted his actions were solely because of a "personal hatred" for the ex-PM.

Mr Abbott said he was left shocked and with a fat lip.