SYDNEY - Iconic Australian actor Bill Hunter, who starred in some of the country's best-known films, has died from cancer aged 71, his manager said on Sunday.

The screen veteran, who made a name for himself playing the archetypal gruff Aussie bloke with a heart of gold, passed away surrounded by family and friends at a Melbourne hospice late on Saturday.

"Bill was much-loved, a gentleman, an inspiration to fellow actors, a journeyman, and a rogue," manager Mark Morrissey said.