COWPER MP Luke Hartsuyker said he had no hint of the Prime Minister's plans to reintroduce knights and dames of the Order of Australia.

Tony Abbott announced on Tuesday that up to four knights or dames will be appointed in any year to celebrate pre-eminent Australians such as outgoing Governor-General Quentin Bryce.

"While I was not aware of the Prime Minister's decision prior to this announcement I respect his right to make the call," Mr Hartsuyker said.

While former Liberal prime minister John Howard has disagreed with the decision to reintroduce knights and dames into the Australian honours system and said it was "unlikely" he would accept an offer of a knighthood should it be offered, Mr Hartsuyker said Mr Abbott's initiative has plenty of merit.

"I believe it is appropriate to acknowledge people who have delivered exemplary service over so many years," he said.

"Quentin Bryce and Peter Cosgrove are both great Australians and I don't think anyone would argue that they are not deserving of this recognition."

The idea of knighthoods and Cowper MP's is nothing new considering Sir Earle Page was the member for Cowper from 1919 to 1961, including a stint as interim Prime Minister in 1939.

Mr Hartsuyker added holding on to traditions is important.

"As a country with a short recorded history, our constitutional monarchy makes us a very strong and vibrant democracy," he said.

"I think it is important that we respect the traditions, which are connected with our way of government."