AN Australia Day event billboard featuring two women in hijabs has been removed after several threats were made to the company behind it.

The billboard sparked controversy on social media but event organisers defended the design.

A spokesman for QMS Media, the outdoor media company involved in the campaign, confirmed the billboard was removed over the weekend, but would not say why, and declined to comment further.

The billboard is believed to be one of 12 across the state and advertises the RACV Australia Day festival at Kings Domain.

The RACV would not comment on the billboard’s removal.

A spokeswoman said: “It’s a state government initiative, we’re just a sponsor of the Australia Day festival.”

Multicultural Affairs Minister Robin Scott said the controversy was disappointing.

“This campaign uses images of Victorians from various cultural backgrounds – all of whom are proud Australians,” he said.

“While the ads have since been removed, anyone who considers this a victory needs a refresher on the true meaning of Australia Day.

“It’s very disappointing to see a small minority attacking proud Australians for their love of their country.”

HAVE YOUR SAY: What do you think of the billboard? Tell us below

A photo of the billboard, which was at the interchange between Peninsula Link and EastLink, was uploaded on a far-right ‘patriots’ Facebook page on January 13 with many commenters claiming it did not represent Australia, and accusing its designers of “propaganda”.

JoJo Jenkins said “our Anzacs would be rolling in their graves to see ‘Australia Day’ advertised like this — what a disgrace to their sacrifice”.

Kaya Brown said, “don’t see any Australians on the billboard ... take one last look because I’m sure next year you won’t see what’s left of the Australian flag at all, instead it will be replaced by a star and moon symbol.”

Andrew Cawfield said, “I’m the one racially vilified in this country now because l’m white.”

Department of Premier and Cabinet spokeswoman Vivien Allimonos said the photo used on the billboard was taken at 2016 Australia Day celebrations.

“Australia Day is for all Victorians and celebrates everything that makes our country great, including our vibrant diversity,” she said.

“This campaign uses images of Victorians from different cultural backgrounds — all proud Australians celebrating our national day.

“The campaign is supported by the Australia Day Victoria Committee and the National Australia Day Council.”

A spokeswoman for RACV, speaking before the billboard was taken down, that the ads are part of a broader Victorian Government marketing campaign.

“RACV is proud to be the major supporter of the Victorian Government’s popular Australia Day Festival, which celebrates everything that makes our country great,” she said.