The Order of Australia medal recipient has been involved in cooking shows for more than 30 years, and has released nine best-selling cookbooks.

Ms Milan said Australia Day was her favourite time of the year.

"This is my 19th consecutive year of being an Ambassador and it is my opportunity to give back to the nation that has given me so much," she said.

"For me, it is a time to connect with and support our regions. I work in food and wine, and I truly appreciate the many producers and farmers who create the raw ingredients I cook with. They face so many climactic hardships - drought, floods, fires, mouse plagues - and yet continue. So nowhere do I feel closer to the land than in regional areas.

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"I always request to go the regions on Australia Day, to make an effort as so many others need to make every day. I am able to share my experiences, but in turn, I learn about each area I go to and so truly become an ambassador for that region. All Australians have had a particularly difficult year this year, so what a wonderful chance for communities to come together, celebrate their local heroes, share a sausage sandwich and a song."

Wellington's Australia Day ambassador is 2020 NSW Young Australia of the Year Corey Tutt.

The ambassadors volunteer their time and energy to contribute to local festivities, with communities encouraged to come together this Australia Day to 'Reflect, Respect and Celebrate' the Australian spirit and our diversity.

Meanwhile, nominations for Dubbo and Wellington's 2021 Australia Day awards are still open.

The awards promote and recognise outstanding examples of citizenship and achievement during the current year, and/or outstanding service over a number of years to a local community or over and above normal employment duties.

The Australia Day Award categories for Dubbo are:

The Australia Day Award categories in Wellington are:

Nominations can be made until Tuesday, January 4 at 5pm. Forms are available on the Dubbo Regional Council website.

The recipients will be announced on Australia Day.

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