Several academics from top universities were Australia Day Honours List for their contributions to society.
Macquarie University's literacy researcher and reformer Professor Kevin Wheldall became a Member (AM) in the Order of Australia for his work in education, after setting up literacy initiative in 1996.
Valerie Pratt AM, a visiting professor with the Macquarie Graduate School of Management and a Fellow of the Labour Management Studies Foundation at Macquarie, became an Officer (AO) of the Order of Australia, for her service to higher education and to the community.
Michael Patkin, a clinical professor within the Australian School of Advanced Medicine at Macquarie, became a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia for service to medicine as a surgeon.
Two University of Adelaide health researchers were appointed Officers of the Order of Australia in the Australia Day Honours List.
Cerebral palsy researcher Professor Alastair MacLennan AO and mental health expert Professor Alexander McFarlane AO have been honoured for their outstanding service to medical research, in the respective fields of cerebral palsy and women's and children's health, and psychiatry.
The Australia Day 2011 Honours List was announced by the Governor-General. The Honours list provides national and formal recognition for many Australians across the nation who have made a significant difference to their communities.