Four Northern Territorians have been recognised for their contribution to the community with the highest Australia Day honours.

Traditional owner Jeffrey Lee has been made a member of the Order of Australia in recognition of his conservation work in Kakadu National Park.

Mr Lee, who now works as a ranger in the park, offered his uranium-rich country to be included in Kakadu for free, and fought for it to be recognised as a World Heritage Area within the park.

He says he did not expect to receive an award for protecting the country he loves, and he appreciates the support he has been given along the way.

"I love the park," he said.

"It is good that I get out and look on my country."