Former chief medical officer Brendan Murphy named Australia's Father of the Year

Former chief medical officer Brendan Murphy has been named Australian Father of the Year ahead of Father's Day on Sunday.

Professor Murphy, who is now the Secretary of the Department of Health, is best known for his role in Australia's management of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison gave the professor a shout-out during his media conference today, praising him for his contribution to keeping Australia safe.

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"Congratulations Professor Murphy - Father of the Year," Mr Morrison said.

"I think he has often been seen as the father figure in many ways from this platform."

The prime minister added he hoped he did not break "some secret" by mentioning the good news.

Professor Murphy is a father to his sons Ben and Alex, and a grandfather to Anna, three, and Emily, one.

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The award acknowledges his work supporting Australians through the pandemic and his dedication to his family.

"Being named Australian Father of the Year is a huge and unexpected honour," Professor Murphy said.

"Fatherhood is a unique and humbling experience that has changed me profoundly, and informed my values to have a stronger focus on family and community.

"A truly wonderful part of fatherhood has been the joy of reliving aspects of it again as a grandparent."