KNIGHTS and Dames have been overthrown from the list of Australian honours – with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull dumping the ridiculed policy.
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Former Prime Minster Tony Abbott was widely criticised when he restored the titles in 2014.
Just seven weeks after ousting Mr Abbott – Mr Turnbull said the titles were “not appropriate” in modern Australia.
“The Cabinet recently considered the Order of Australia, in this its 40th anniversary year, and agreed that Knights and Dames are not appropriate in our modern honours system,” Mr Turnbull said.
“The cabinet resolved to recommend to Her Majesty that she amend the Letters Patent, which establish the Order of Australia, so that Knights and Dames would longer be appointed to the Order.”
Mr Abbott’s controversial decision was initially mocked – but his decision to appoint Prince Philip a Knight on Australia day this year incensed Australians.
At the time he said said the 93-year old was being recognised for his "contribution to Australia throughout the Queen's 62-year reign".
Recipients of the titles include former governor general Quentin Bryce and current governor general Peter Cosgrove.
The change will not affect existing Knights and Dames.
