It is inspired by an iconic image of "hope", but represents the exact opposite: the "hopeless" Abbott government.

The 4.5 metre tall poster, erected in Chippendale on Monday, is the brainchild of Sydney-based graphic designer Michael Agzarian.

A Tony Abbott 'hopeless' poster at a service station on Regent St, Chippendale. Credit:Brianne Makin

Fed-up with a federal government he describes as "inept and uncaring", Mr Agzarian decided to put more than $3000 of his own money towards "making a statement".

He believes the poster represents a sentiment shared by many Australians.