''I just want to encourage each and every Australian to reach out and connect,'' he told The Age after receiving the honour.
As executive chairman of the Melbourne operations of investment bank Macquarie Bank, he has led his colleagues in community activities.
Mr McKeon, who was appointed chairman of CSIRO last year and was on the board of World Vision Australia, asked Australians to look around and find where they can match their interests and skills to the needs of others.
''It might involve a little bit of sacrifice and discipline,'' he said. ''But, and this is just so crucial to understand, that participation has given me back so, so much more than I have given it.
''Just reach out and connect. I am not in any way seeking to have people do anything out of guilt. It is simply not about that. You can pick things that work for you.
''Talk to people you know and trust who are already involved… I am confident there is a cause for everyone,” he added. ''Think of how you can contribute - we all have different skills.''
To read the full story in The Age and view television coverage please visit this link
To find out about how you can volunteer your time and talents to help Mission Australia visit
missionaustralia.com.au/volunteer-at-mission-australia
Australia's coldest, darkest season was made a little warmer this year for many of our homeless clients, thanks to some wonderful organisations and their very generous employees.