Donald Ritchie's efforts to coax dozens of people back from the brink of death has earned him recognition as Australia's Local Hero for 2011.

Mr Ritchie, who lives opposite the infamous Sydney suicide spot The Gap, has talked more than 160 people out of taking their lives there.

His strategy: simply to offer a cup of tea and chat back at his place.

Mr Ritchie says it does not take much to make a difference for those in need and anyone can help.

"I ask each of you to consider how we can better support those contemplating suicide," he said in his acceptance speech.

"To my fellow Australians, never be afraid to speak to those who you feel are in need. Always remember the power of the simple smile, a helping hand, a listening ear and a kind word."

Mr Ritchie was named Local Hero at a ceremony in Canberra this evening.

The National Australia Day Council said Mr Ritchie's tangible efforts to prevent suicide were "truly remarkable".

"His kind words and invitations into his home in times of trouble have made an enormous difference," the council said in a statement.

"With such simple actions Don has saved an extraordinary number of lives."

Mr Ritchie has lived near The Gap for almost five decades and has kept up a voluntary watch from the window of his second-storey bedroom for most of that time.

In the early years he tried to physically restrain people wanting to jump while his wife called the police, but since then he has taken a more hands-off approach.

Mr Ritchie has been recognised multiple times for his efforts, receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2006, while both he and his wife Moya were named Woollahra Council's Citizens of the Year in 2010.

- AAP