Prime Minister Tony Abbott has dismissed calls for the Australian government to apologise to David Hicks following the quashing of his terrorism conviction.

The ruling by a US military court brings an end to an almost decade-long legal saga.

David Hicks' terrorism conviction has been overturned. Credit:Kate Geraghty

Mr Hicks' father, Terry, says the prospect of seeking compensation was unlikely but an apology was needed from the government, but he is not confident it will be forthcoming.