Australia has produced some of the world’s most talented and iconic female singers over the years. From pop superstars to country legends, rock icons to soulful crooners, Australian women have made their mark on the music industry with their raw talent, powerful voices, and captivating performances.
One of the most notable and enduring features of Australian female singers is their versatility. Many artists have successfully crossed genres, incorporating elements of rock, pop, country, blues, jazz, and other styles into their music. They have also tackled a wide range of social and political issues in their lyrics, giving voice to important causes like women’s rights, Indigenous rights, and environmentalism.
Some of the most famous Australian female singers include Kylie Minogue, Sia, Olivia Newton-John, Natalie Imbruglia, Delta Goodrem, and Tina Arena, among many others. These artists have not only achieved great commercial success and critical acclaim, but have also become role models and cultural icons for their fans around the world.
Whether they are belting out powerful ballads or dance-floor anthems, Australian female singers continue to make an impact on the global music scene, proving that talent knows no boundaries and that their voices will always be heard.
1. Kylie Minogue
Kylie Minogue is a highly renowned Australian singer, songwriter, and actress who has made a tremendous impact on the music industry since her debut in the 1980s. She is known for her bubbly personality, catchy tunes, and stunning stage performances that have captivated audiences worldwide. Kylie has sold over 70 million records globally, making her one of the best-selling female artists of all time.
Kylie’s music is a mix of pop, dance, and disco, with a distinct flair for experimentation and reinvention. She first rose to fame in the late 1980s with her hit single “I Should Be So Lucky” and quickly became an icon of the pop scene. Throughout the years, Kylie has released numerous chart-topping albums, including “Fever,” “X,” and “Golden,” and has collaborated with a range of artists, from Nick Cave to Robbie Williams.
Aside from her music career, Kylie is also known for her acting roles in film and television, including the Australian soap opera “Neighbours” and the movie “Moulin Rouge!” Her creativity and versatility have earned her numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award, multiple Brit Awards, and an OBE for services to music.
Despite her success, Kylie remains humble and down-to-earth, and is admired for her philanthropy work, particularly in the fight against breast cancer. She is a true icon of pop culture, and her influence on the music industry and beyond is undeniable.
2. Sia
Sia is an Australian singer, songwriter, and music video director who has become a beloved figure in the music industry for her unique sound and captivating live performances. She is known for her distinctive vocals, which range from delicate and ethereal to powerful and soulful, and her experimental approach to pop music.
Sia first rose to prominence in the early 2000s with her album “Healing Is Difficult” and her hit single “Breathe Me,” which was featured in the finale of the TV series “Six Feet Under.” However, it was her collaboration with David Guetta on the song “Titanium” that catapulted her to international fame. Sia has since released several critically acclaimed albums, including “1000 Forms of Fear,” “This Is Acting,” and “Everyday Is Christmas.”
In addition to her music, Sia is also known for her striking stage performances, which often feature elaborate costumes and choreography. She has also made a name for herself as a music video director, with her videos for “Chandelier” and “Elastic Heart” receiving widespread acclaim.
Despite her success, Sia is known for her reclusive nature and often performs with her face covered. She has also been open about her struggles with mental health and addiction, and has used her platform to raise awareness and advocate for those who are struggling. Sia’s creativity, authenticity, and resilience have made her a beloved figure in the music industry, and her influence shows no signs of waning.
3. Tina Arena
Tina Arena is a legendary Australian singer-songwriter who has been entertaining audiences for over four decades. With a powerful voice that spans a wide range of genres, from pop to jazz to rock, Arena has become one of Australia’s most successful and beloved artists.
Arena began her career as a child star on the Australian television show “Young Talent Time.” She later ventured into a solo career and released her debut album, “Strong as Steel,” in 1990. Her music quickly gained international attention, and she has since released numerous albums, including “Don’t Ask,” “In Deep,” and “Reset.”
Arena is known for her dynamic stage presence and her ability to connect with audiences through her music. Her performances are often accompanied by a live band, and she has a reputation for delivering powerful and emotional live shows. In addition to her music career, Arena has also appeared in a number of stage productions, including the lead role in “Notre-Dame de Paris.”
Arena has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, including ARIA Awards, Logie Awards, and the Order of Australia for her contributions to the arts. She has also been recognized for her humanitarian work, including her support of various charities and organizations. With her exceptional talent, enduring career, and passionate advocacy, Tina Arena has earned a special place in the hearts of music fans worldwide.
4. Olivia Newton-John
Olivia Newton-John is a legendary British-Australian singer, actress, and entrepreneur who has made an indelible mark on the music industry since her debut in the 1960s. With her angelic voice and captivating stage presence, she has become a beloved icon of pop music, with a career spanning over five decades.
Newton-John first gained international fame in the 1970s with her hit songs “If Not For You” and “I Honestly Love You.” She went on to release a series of successful albums, including “Have You Never Been Mellow,” “Physical,” and “Soul Kiss.” She is also known for her work in films, including the hit musical “Grease,” in which she played the iconic role of Sandy.
Aside from her music and acting career, Newton-John is also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting a variety of causes, including cancer research and environmental conservation. In 1992, she founded the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre in Melbourne, Australia, which provides support and care for cancer patients and their families.
Throughout her career, Newton-John has received numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide with her timeless music and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
5. Natalie Imbruglia
Natalie Imbruglia is an Australian-British singer-songwriter and actress who burst onto the international music scene in the late 1990s with her hit song “Torn.” With her signature raspy voice and heartfelt lyrics, Imbruglia quickly became one of the most popular and respected artists of her generation.
Born in Sydney, Australia, Imbruglia began her career as an actress, starring in the Australian soap opera “Neighbours.” However, it was her music that brought her global fame. Her debut album, “Left of the Middle,” was released in 1997 and featured several hit songs, including “Torn” and “Big Mistake.” She went on to release several more successful albums, including “White Lilies Island” and “Counting Down the Days.”
In addition to her music career, Imbruglia has also appeared in a number of films and television shows, including “Johnny English” and “Underdogs.” She is known for her philanthropic work, including her support of various charities and organizations, including the United Nations and the Australian Red Cross.
With her soulful voice and introspective lyrics, Imbruglia has become a beloved figure in the music industry, and her influence continues to be felt today. Her commitment to using her platform for good, combined with her exceptional talent, has made her a role model for aspiring artists and fans alike.
6. Iggy Azalea
Iggy Azalea is an Australian rapper, singer, and songwriter who has made a name for herself in the music industry with her unique style and confident persona. Born in Sydney, Australia, Azalea moved to the United States in 2006 to pursue her music career.
Her breakthrough came in 2014 with the release of her debut studio album, “The New Classic,” which featured the hit songs “Fancy” and “Black Widow.” The album earned her four Grammy nominations and solidified her status as one of the most popular and influential rappers of her generation.
Known for her provocative lyrics and edgy fashion sense, Azalea has become a cultural icon and role model for young women around the world. She has been recognized for her humanitarian work, including her support of various charities and organizations, and has used her platform to speak out on social and political issues.
Despite facing criticism and controversy throughout her career, Azalea has remained focused on her music and her fans, and continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Her dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to her art have made her a beloved figure in the world of hip-hop and beyond.
7. Missy Higgins
Missy Higgins is an Australian singer-songwriter who has captured the hearts of music lovers around the world with her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. Born in Melbourne, Australia, Higgins began her music career in the early 2000s and quickly gained a devoted following with her debut album, “The Sound of White.”
Her music is characterized by her introspective lyrics and distinctive voice, which blends elements of pop, folk, and rock music. She has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “On a Clear Night” and “The Ol’ Razzle Dazzle,” and has won multiple ARIA Awards, the most prestigious music award in Australia.
In addition to her music career, Higgins is also known for her activism and philanthropy. She has worked with a number of organizations to raise awareness about climate change and social justice issues, and has been recognized for her contributions to these causes.
With her infectious energy and undeniable talent, Higgins has become a beloved figure in the music industry, and her influence continues to be felt today. Her commitment to using her platform for good, combined with her exceptional talent, has made her a role model for aspiring artists and fans alike.
8. Jessica Mauboy
Jessica Mauboy is an Australian singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to fame in 2006 as a contestant on the fourth season of the reality show “Australian Idol.” Since then, she has become one of Australia’s most successful and beloved musicians, known for her soulful voice and captivating stage presence.
Born and raised in Darwin, Australia, Mauboy has released several successful albums, including “Been Waiting” and “Beautiful,” which have spawned hit songs like “Running Back” and “Burn.” She has also won multiple ARIA Awards and represented Australia in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2018.
In addition to her music career, Mauboy has also pursued acting, appearing in the films “The Sapphires” and “Bran Nue Dae,” as well as the television series “The Secret Daughter.” She is known for her philanthropic work, including her support of various charities and organizations.
With her powerful voice and infectious energy, Mauboy has become a beloved figure in the music industry, and her influence continues to be felt today. Her commitment to using her platform for good, combined with her exceptional talent, has made her a role model for aspiring artists and fans alike.
9. Delta Goodrem
Delta Goodrem is an Australian singer, songwriter, and actress who first rose to fame in 2002 with the release of her debut album, “Innocent Eyes.” Since then, she has become one of Australia’s most successful musicians, known for her powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics.
Born in Sydney, Australia, Goodrem began her music career as a teenager and quickly gained a following with her debut single, “Born to Try.” Her music is characterized by her soaring vocals and introspective lyrics, which have resonated with fans around the world.
In addition to her music career, Goodrem has also pursued acting, appearing in the television series “Neighbours” and the film “Hating Alison Ashley.” She is also known for her philanthropic work, including her support of cancer research organizations and her role as a UNICEF ambassador.
With her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to her craft, Goodrem has become a beloved figure in the music industry, and her influence continues to be felt today. Her commitment to using her platform for good, combined with her exceptional talent, has made her a role model for aspiring artists and fans alike.
10. Courtney Barnett
Courtney Barnett is an Australian singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her unique style and lyrical prowess. Born in Sydney, Australia, Barnett began her music career in Melbourne in the early 2010s, and quickly gained a following with her debut EP, “I’ve Got a Friend Called Emily Ferris.”
Her music is characterized by her distinctive vocals and clever lyrics, which often explore themes of everyday life and personal experiences. She has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Sometimes I Sit and Think, and Sometimes I Just Sit” and “Tell Me How You Really Feel,” which have earned her multiple ARIA Awards and a Grammy nomination.
In addition to her music career, Barnett is also known for her advocacy work, including her support of LGBTQ+ rights and environmental causes. She has used her platform to speak out on social and political issues, and has been recognized for her contributions to these causes.
With her raw talent and unique voice, Barnett has become a beloved figure in the music industry, and her influence continues to be felt today. Her commitment to using her platform for good, combined with her exceptional talent, has made her a role model for aspiring artists and fans alike.
11. Tones and I
Tones and I, whose real name is Toni Watson, is an Australian singer-songwriter who rose to fame in 2019 with her hit song “Dance Monkey.” Born and raised in Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Watson began her music career as a busker, performing on the streets of Byron Bay before being discovered by a record label.
“Dance Monkey” quickly became a global phenomenon, topping charts in several countries and breaking records for the longest-running number one song on the Australian charts. The song’s success propelled Tones and I to international stardom, and she has since released several other hit singles, including “Never Seen the Rain” and “Fly Away.”
Known for her distinctive voice and quirky style, Tones and I has become a beloved figure in the music industry, and her influence continues to be felt today. Her commitment to staying true to herself and her unique sound has earned her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
With her raw talent and infectious energy, Tones and I has become one of Australia’s most successful musicians, and her future in the industry looks bright. Her commitment to using her platform for good, combined with her exceptional talent, has made her a role model for aspiring artists and fans alike.
12. Judith Durham
Judith Durham is an Australian singer, songwriter, and musician best known as the lead vocalist of the popular folk and pop group The Seekers. Born in Melbourne, Australia in 1943, Durham began her music career in the early 1960s, performing in various jazz and folk groups before joining The Seekers in 1962.
As the lead vocalist of The Seekers, Durham quickly became known for her powerful voice and charismatic stage presence. The group’s music, which blended elements of folk, pop, and country, proved to be immensely popular, and they went on to become one of the most successful musical acts of the 1960s.
After The Seekers disbanded in the 1970s, Durham continued to pursue music, releasing several solo albums and collaborating with other musicians. Her music is characterized by her beautiful voice and heartfelt lyrics, which have resonated with fans around the world.
In addition to her music career, Durham is also known for her philanthropic work, including her support of environmental causes and her role as a patron of the arts.
With her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to her craft, Durham has become a beloved figure in the music industry, and her influence continues to be felt today. Her commitment to using her platform for good, combined with her exceptional talent, has made her a role model for aspiring artists and fans alike.
13. Dannii Minogue
Dannii Minogue is an Australian singer, actress, and television personality. Born in Melbourne, Australia, in 1971, she began her music career in the 1980s, releasing her debut album “Love and Kisses” in 1991. Her music is characterized by its catchy pop hooks and dance beats, and she has had several hit singles in Australia and the UK.
In addition to her music career, Minogue is also known for her work as a television personality, having appeared as a judge on several seasons of the popular talent show “The X Factor” in the UK and Australia. She has also acted in several television shows and movies, including the popular Australian soap opera “Home and Away.”
With her talent, charisma, and dedication to her craft, Minogue has become a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and her influence continues to be felt today. Her commitment to using her platform for good, combined with her exceptional talent, has made her a role model for aspiring artists and fans alike.
14. Kate Miller-Heidke
Kate Miller-Heidke is an Australian singer-songwriter known for her unique and versatile voice, theatrical performances, and clever songwriting. Born in Brisbane, Australia, in 1981, Miller-Heidke began her music career in the early 2000s, releasing her debut album “Little Eve” in 2007.
Her music is characterized by its catchy pop hooks, intricate melodies, and insightful lyrics, which often touch on themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. In addition to her solo work, Miller-Heidke has collaborated with several other musicians and artists, including the Australian Chamber Orchestra and the Australian Ballet.
Miller-Heidke is also known for her work as a stage performer, having starred in several productions of the opera “The Magic Flute” and co-writing the music and lyrics for the hit musical “Muriel’s Wedding.” Her ability to seamlessly blend genres and create innovative, boundary-pushing performances has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
With her raw talent and dedication to her craft, Miller-Heidke has become one of Australia’s most beloved musicians and performers, and her influence continues to be felt today. Her commitment to using her platform for good, combined with her exceptional talent, has made her a role model for aspiring artists and fans alike.
15. Joan Sutherland
Joan Sutherland was an Australian soprano opera singer who became one of the most acclaimed and admired singers of the 20th century. Born in Sydney, Australia, in 1926, Sutherland began her music career in the 1950s, quickly gaining attention for her stunning vocal range, power, and control.
Sutherland’s voice was known for its bright, clear tone, and her ability to effortlessly hit high notes with precision and clarity. She quickly became known for her performances of bel canto operas, particularly those of Donizetti and Bellini, and became a mainstay of the opera world throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
Throughout her career, Sutherland received numerous accolades and awards for her contributions to the world of opera, including the Order of Merit from Queen Elizabeth II and the Companion of the Order of Australia.
With her exceptional talent, dedication, and unwavering commitment to her craft, Sutherland became one of the most influential and admired opera singers of all time. Her legacy continues to be felt today, and she remains a beloved figure in the world of opera and classical music.
16. Anja Nissen
Anja Nissen is a Danish-Australian singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and compelling songwriting. Born in Denmark in 1995, Nissen moved to Australia with her family when she was just a child, and began her music career in the early 2010s.
Nissen rose to prominence in Australia after winning the third season of the talent show “The Voice” in 2014, impressing audiences and judges with her stunning vocal range and emotive performances. Since then, she has released several successful albums and singles, including the hit song “Anyone Who Had a Heart.”
Nissen’s music is characterized by its catchy pop hooks, powerful vocals, and heartfelt lyrics, which often touch on themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. She is also known for her work as a stage performer, having starred in several musical productions in Australia and abroad.
With her raw talent and dedication to her craft, Nissen has become one of Australia’s most beloved musicians and performers, and her influence continues to be felt today. Her commitment to using her platform for good, combined with her exceptional talent, has made her a role model for aspiring artists and fans alike.
17. Ella Hooper
Ella Hooper is an Australian singer, songwriter, and television personality. Born in Melbourne in 1983, Hooper first rose to prominence in the late 1990s as the lead singer of the rock band Killing Heidi, which she formed with her brother Jesse.
Killing Heidi quickly became one of Australia’s most popular rock bands, thanks to their unique sound, catchy hooks, and Ella’s powerful vocals. Their debut album, “Reflector,” was a massive success, spawning several hit singles, including “Mascara” and “Weir.”
After Killing Heidi disbanded in the mid-2000s, Hooper launched a successful solo career, releasing several albums and singles, including the hit song “Low High.” She is also known for her work as a television presenter, having hosted several music-related programs, including “The Hit List” and “Spicks and Specks.”
Throughout her career, Hooper has remained a beloved and influential figure in the Australian music scene, inspiring countless fans and fellow musicians with her raw talent, infectious energy, and passionate commitment to her craft. Her music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by audiences around the world.
18. Samantha Jade
Samantha Jade is an Australian singer, songwriter, and actress. Born in Perth, Western Australia, in 1987, Jade began her music career in the early 2000s as a contestant on the television show “Popstars” before releasing her debut single “Step Up” in 2006.
Jade rose to national fame after winning the fourth season of the Australian version of “The X Factor” in 2012. Her winning single, a cover of the song “What You’ve Done to Me,” became an instant hit, debuting at number one on the ARIA Singles Chart.
Since then, Jade has released several successful albums and singles, including “Firestarter,” “Soldier,” and “Bounce.” She is known for her powerful vocals, energetic stage presence, and her ability to seamlessly blend pop, R&B, and dance music.
In addition to her music career, Jade has also appeared in several television shows and films, including the Australian soap opera “Home and Away” and the musical film “The Sapphires.”
With her raw talent, charisma, and passion for her craft, Samantha Jade has become one of Australia’s most beloved musicians and performers, and her influence continues to be felt today.
19. Lanie Lane
Lanie Lane is an Australian singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of vintage rockabilly and country blues music. Born in Sydney in 1987, Lane began her music career as a teenager, performing in various bands before launching her solo career in the early 2010s.
Lane’s music is heavily influenced by classic blues and rockabilly artists like Wanda Jackson and Sister Rosetta Tharpe, and she is known for her powerful vocals, soulful guitar playing, and captivating live performances. Her debut album, “To the Horses,” was released in 2011 to critical acclaim, earning her a nomination for Best Blues & Roots Album at the ARIA Awards.
Since then, Lane has released several successful albums and singles, including “Oh Well, That’s What You Get Falling in Love with a Cowboy” and “Ain’t Hungry.” She has also toured extensively throughout Australia and the United States, sharing the stage with such notable artists as Jack White and Nick Cave.
With her raw talent, passion, and infectious energy, Lanie Lane has become one of Australia’s most beloved and respected musicians, inspiring countless fans and fellow artists with her unique blend of vintage sounds and modern sensibilities.
20. Helen Reddy
Helen Reddy was an Australian singer, actress, and activist who rose to fame in the 1970s with her hit song “I Am Woman,” which became an anthem for the feminist movement. Born in Melbourne in 1941, Reddy began her music career in Australia in the 1960s, performing in various bands and television shows.
In 1971, Reddy moved to the United States and signed with Capitol Records, where she released her debut album, “I Don’t Know How to Love Him.” The album’s title track became her first hit single, but it was “I Am Woman,” released the following year, that cemented her status as a feminist icon and cultural icon.
Over the course of her career, Reddy released several successful albums and singles, including “Delta Dawn” and “Angie Baby.” She also appeared in several films and television shows, including the Disney musical “Pete’s Dragon.”
Reddy was known for her powerful voice, passionate performances, and unwavering commitment to social justice and women’s rights. Her music continues to inspire and empower generations of fans around the world, and her legacy as a trailblazing artist and activist will always be remembered.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
