Mr Andren held the seat of Calare for almost 12 years until he died last year of pancreatic cancer.

Today he has been appointed as a member of the Order of Australia.

Fellow Independent MP and friend, Tony Windsor, said the award was "a great tribute to a great Australian".

"Peter Andren's public life was very much based on the right of the individual and general public to have fair and proper representation in the political arena," Mr Windsor said.

"His contribution to the people of his electorate of Calare, to regional Australia, human rights, indigenous affairs and the scrutiny of the Parliament will have a lasting legacy for all Australians.

"Peter's passing late last year was of great sadness to us all, however this honour will no doubt provide his partner Valerie, his sons Greg and Josh and his wonderful staff with much solace in the knowledge that Peter's efforts and contribution to his country will be remembered."