Yorta Yorta leader Uncle Paul Briggs AO has received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Melbourne, recognising his lifelong leadership and advocacy for Indigenous rights and advancement.

The Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa), the University's highest honour, was presented at a graduation ceremony on Monday.

Uncle Paul has been a champion of the role sport plays in fostering connections within Indigenous communities and breaking down racial barriers.

As the founding President of the Rumbalara Football Netball Club (RFNC), he led a 15-year campaign to secure the club's entry into the Central Goulburn Football League.

The RFNC is one of several significant initiatives Uncle Paul has spearheaded.

He was the founding chairman of the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) and launched the First Nations Australian Credit Union, providing national access to financial services for Indigenous Australians.

In 2004, he collaborated with the University of Melbourne to establish the Academy of Sport Health and Education (ASHE), supporting young Indigenous people transitioning to employment or further education.

Uncle Paul made history in 2005 as the first Indigenous man to join the University of Melbourne Council in its 150-year history.

Most recently, he played a leading role in founding the Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence, a collaboration with the University, Munarra Limited, RFNC, and the Kaiela Institute.

Earlier this year, Uncle Paul was awarded an Order of Australia for his contributions to Indigenous communities, reconciliation and sport.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous, Professor Barry Judd, said Uncle Paul has set a benchmark for Indigenous excellence.

"His lifelong dedication to self-determination and education has raised community expectations and created pathways for future generations," he said.

"The Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence stands as a key legacy of his tireless work for Yorta Yorta excellence."