The prestigious accolades recognise those who have made outstanding contributions in public, community, emergency and military service throughout Australia. The six locals were among 783 Australians to be recognised.

Five received an Order of Australian Medal (OAM), one was honoured as a Member (AM) in the General Division and the seventh an Australian Police Medal (APM).

Tighes Hill's Arthur Soper is well known in the Newcastle community.

He was president of the Newcastle City and Suburban Cricket Association from 1981 to 2012.

Mr Soper has also dedicated time to the Salvation Army, being a member of different bands and holding a position that involved helping young people.

W James Mackay, of Cooks Hill, was recognised for his service to the Newcastle community, while Newcastle's Alan Arnold was lauded for his community service in the Hunter Valley.

Community health and disability care advocate Susan Walton, of Newcastle, was honoured.

In Lake Macquarie, Bonnells Bay's Neville Harris was recognised for his service to the community of Lake Cargelligo.

Emeritus Professor Anthony Smith, of Carey Bay, was named as the Member (AM) in the General Division for significant service to medicine as a clinical pharmacologist.

Senior Sergeant Michael Alan Steggles was awarded an Australian Police Medal for his service to the NSW Police.