Aussie Thai cave divers will be honoured

The Australian cave divers who helped rescue the Thai soccer team from a flooded cave will be honoured for their "extraordinary acts of heroism".

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the Australians involved in the rescue will be given civilian honours for their part in the international effort.

"That is one of the most extraordinary acts of heroism, professionalism, discipline, team work," Mr Turnbull told 3AW radio on Tuesday.

"That was an example to all of us. A team brought from all over the world showing what people of goodwill and discipline and courage can do when they work together."

Australian anaesthetist Dr Richard Harris won praise for his key efforts in medically assessing the 12 boys and their coach in the cave deep underground.

"He is one of the greatest examples of every Australian value we hold dear," Mr Turnbull said.