Konta, seeded ninth, saw off 30th seed Makarova 6-1 6-4 to reach the last eight without dropping a set.

The Briton, 25, reached her first Grand Slam semi-final in Melbourne last year.

Second seed Williams overcame stern resistance from Czech 16th seed Barbora Strycova to win 7-5 6-4.

Asked about facing the 22-time Grand Slam champion for the first time, Konta said: "Believe it or not that's an incredible experience for me.

"She's one of the few players still playing who I watched growing up. As a young girl wanting to be a professional tennis player, it's an incredible honour and I can't wait to play on court with her.

"Once out on court, against anyone, anyone is out there to compete. Hopefully I'll come off as the winner.

"In terms of enjoying the opportunity and the competition, I will cherish every minute out there."