Victoria's Governor Linda Dessau awarded Archie Roach the honour at a Government House ceremony on Wednesday night.

Mr Roach, a singer-songwriter and campaigner for First Nations Australians' rights, spent part of his childhood at the Aboriginal mission at Framlingham.

He was forcibly removed from his family at age two.

Mr Roach is a Member of the Order of Australia for his lifetime contribution to Indigenous arts and culture.

His music career has drawn numerous awards, including two ARIA Awards for his 1990 debut album Charcoal Lane, and a Human Rights Achievement Award for his iconic Stolen Generations song Took the Children Away.

Mr Roach today operates Ruby's Foundation to improve opportunities for young First Nations people through art and culture.

The ceremony also presented the Victorian Senior Australian of the Year, Victorian Young Australian of the Year and Victorian Local Hero awards.

National Australia Day Council CEO Karlie Brand congratulated the award recipients from Victoria.

"The 2020 Victoria Australians of the Year are inspirational, they combine their talents and experience with their passion to make a difference," Ms Brand said.

Have you signed up to The Standard's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in the south-west.