Prime Minister Tony Abbott and his Liberal predecessor John Howard were greeted by a chorus of boos when they arrived at the state memorial service for Labor legend Gough Whitlam on Wednesday morning.

Their reception was in stark contrast to that of former Labor prime ministers Bob Hawke, Paul Keating and Julia Gillard, who each received standing ovations at the Sydney Town Hall.

Tony Abbott and Bob Hawke at the memorial inside Sydney Town Hall. Credit:Peter Rae

Ms Gillard was welcomed with one of the biggest receptions, including a standing ovation, cheers, and flowers as she made her way into the service, where she was greeted by her former Labor national president and minister Barry Jones



Just minutes later, Mr Abbott arrived the service. The cheers that were still ringing out for Ms Gillard from the crowd of thousands outside the town hall quickly turned to a boo that "you could hear in Manly", according to one attendee.