The Accrington-based England international is to be rewarded in the year 2000 following 10 years of loyal service at Old Trafford.
``I am obviously very pleased about it all,'' said a delighted Austin.
``The club told me about it in November but they could not announce it officially until the New Year. It's nice to get a pat on the back and it's a great reward for my services to the club.''
The former Haslingden professional, who received his county cap in 1990, has appointed John Cotton of Thwaites's Brewery as the chairman of his benefit committee.
Meanwhile, Austin is winning his battle to be fit for the start of the new season after undergoing an operation before Christmas to clean up his knee.
``I'm in the process of strengthening it up again,'' said Austin. ``It's a case of taking things steadily and not knocking my progress back and hopefully I will be able to start bowling again in the next two or three weeks.''
Anyone interested in getting involved in Ian Austin's benefit year should contact John Cotton at Thwaites's on 01254 54431.