Former prime minister Tony Abbott has given the thumbs-up to his bronze replica at its unveiling in Ballarat, saying he is glad to see his likeness smiling after years of controversy.

It has been almost two years since Mr Abbott, who served as prime minister between 2013–2015, lost his position to Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

He has now been immortalised in Ballarat’s Prime Ministers Avenue, in the western Victorian city’s 19th century botanic gardens.

“Given the controversies I’ve endured over the years it’s very nice to see a happy, smiling 28th prime minister of Australia,” the Liberal MP for Warringah said.

Mr Abbott is the latest leader to be added to Ballarat’s portrait avenue, which was established in 1940 by the local benefactor and MP, Richard Crouch.

The quick succession of leaders in recent years had caused something of a backlog.

Sculptor Linda Klarfeld said she began her bronze portrait of Mr Abbott after he was ousted from power.

“I did get an insight from his perspective as well, and I tried to put that in the sculpture,” said Ms Klarfeld, who is the first female sculptor to contribute to the avenue.

“It’s just incredible to think about the stamina – how do you cope with criticism day-to-day?

“What does that do to you? And what kind of strong will do you have to have to keep your vision?”

Julia Gillard’s statue was unveiled in 2016. Photo: ABC

‘I’m happy to be in the company of my forebears’

Speaking at the unveiling, Mr Abbott made an effort to defend his record at the nation’s helm.

“As time passes, it is usually possible to see more clearly the good that people were trying to achieve,” he said.

“And to appreciate better the ideals of duty and service which motivate all in public life, but obviously particularly motivate those at its pinnacle.”

Mr Abbott described himself as a “political warrior”.

“But I would like to think that at all times I have been a happy warrior, and I think that that does come out in [this] work,” he said.

The former prime minister said he was not concerned about his bust being a stone’s throw from his predecessors and political opponents, Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd.

“I’m happy to be in the company of my forebears, and hopefully they don’t mind being in my presence.”

Around 100 supporters joined the sculptor and local officials to witness the event.

The avenue was established in 1940 by local benefactor and MP, Richard Crouch. Photo: ABC

-ABC