A third Australian legend has handed back his Order of Australia award after selectors also acknowledged controversial tennis star Margaret Court for the top honour.
Renowned artist Peter Kingston was named a Member of the Order of Australia in 2012, but has since returned his medal.
The painter, most famous for capturing Sydney Harbour, stood in solidarity with veteran television journalist Kerry O Brien and general practitioner Clara Tuck Meng Soo, who both returned their medals.
Court was one of four people made a Companion of the Order of Australia in 2021 - the highest honour in the nation.
She was given the top gong for eminent service to tennis as an internationally acclaimed player and record-holding grand slam champion, and as a mentor of young sportspersons.
O Brien, a legendary ABC reporter with more than 50 years experience, was to be appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia - the second highest honour. But he has now turned it down.