Astro Labe, 38, is charged with causing harm to a commonwealth official – which carries maximum penalty of 10 years’ jail

This article is more than 2 years old

This article is more than 2 years old

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 in jail.

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

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 reappear on 18 January.

At the time Abbott claimed it was an orchestrated attack as part of the marriage equality debate.

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

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