Frances' son, Lawrence Eastland, told The Daily Telegraph that their family would be celebrating the honour with a glass of champagne, just like Frances would've.
"I'm so proud of her and only wish she was here to accept it herself," Eastland said.
Also on the Australia Day honours list were Kylie Minogue and Magda Szubanski - who both received Officers of the Order of Australia (AO) appointments for their contribution to the performing arts industry.
"To be acknowledged in this way is absolutely one of the highlights of my life," Szubanski said, as she was also recognised for her role in campaigning for marriage equality.