Artist sought for Abbott portrait

Wanted: one artist. Your subject: Tony Abbott.

All former prime ministers are required to have their portraits painted to form part of the collection displayed at Parliament House in Canberra.

The commissioned artist receives a standard $30,000 fee with a further $2000 available to cover framing costs.

Mr Abbott has been invited to start the portrait process, the Department of Parliamentary Services told AAP on Monday.

His office has had preliminary conversations with the department regarding the process.

Talks are also continuing with Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard about the final selection of an artist to undertake their portraits.