Opposition Leader Tony Abbott says posters that depict him as racist, homophobic and sexist are "tacky and not funny".

The posters, displayed inside the Sydney electorate office of Health Minister Tanya Plibersek, carry the slogans: "I'm threatened by boats and gays. Gays on boats are my worst nightmare" and also "Note to Ladies: Make me a sandwich".

The poster in Tanya Plibersek's office.

Deputy Opposition Leader Julie Bishop told parliament yesterday she was outraged by the posters and called for Ms Plibersek to apologise.

The health minister issued a statement saying the posters were satire and that she had asked the staff member to take them down.