Former Australian Prime Minister John Howard has been named by Queen Elizabeth II to the Order of Merit. The order is bestowed on individuals who have achieved exceptional distinction in the arts, learning, sciences and other areas such as public service.

The Order has only 24 living individuals from Commonwealth nations at any one time. The monarch makes appointments without government input.

"It's obviously something that gives me a great deal of pleasure and surprise," Howard told ABC Radio.

"I also see it as a compliment to Australia and a reminder of the great respect the Queen has for out country and the continue interest that she displays in the welfare of Australia and Australians," added Howard, who was Australia's second-longest serving prime minister.

A recent study showed that despite the growing move for Australia to become a republic, the royal visit to Australia and the wedding of Prince William to Kate Middleton helped stem sentiment for ditching the monarchy before the Queen's death.