"We congratulate Mr Zhuang who has been recognised for his significant involvement in the ground-breaking 25 year, $25 billion bid by the North West Shelf Joint Venture for the contract to supply liquefied natural gas to China," said DoIR Director General Jim Limerick.

The importance of Mr Zhuang's influence in the successful outcome for Australia is underlined by his being in all State and Federal Government delegations to and from China throughout the process.

"In fact, Mr Zhuang's contribution to this successful bid, won in August 2002, was extremely important in allowing the Australian bid to differentiate itself from the other international tenders."

The deal will see Australia receive more than $75 million annually in royalties, plus many times this amount in company tax. The LNG imported by China will help meet energy shortages in China, and will contribute it improving air quality.

Dr Limerick said Mr Zhuang worked tirelessly in China, networking with Chinese Government officials at all levels and maintaining close working relations with the Australian Embassy and the ALNG office in Beijing.

"He was able to guide our office in Perth on actions that needed to be taken here to further Australia's chances of winning the supply contract," said Dr Limerick.

Mr Zhuang has worked in international relations and trade for Western Australia since 1987. From 1993, he has been the State's official representative in China, operating firstly from Hong Kong (until 1996), and now from Shanghai.

The Order of Australia, established by Queen Elizabeth II on 14 February 1975, provides recognition to Australian citizens and other persons for achievement or for meritorious service.