The singer was "excited" to announce the news on her Twitter page this afternoon, confirming that she would return to her native country for six months to shoot the programme. Natalie will join Boyzone singer Ronan Keating, former Australian Idol winner Guy Sebastian and radio host Kyle Sandilands on the judging panel.

"Finally I can share my good news. I am off to OZ to be a judge on X Factor!! So excited. I love the show and can`t wait to get started," Natalie wrote.

The first auditions will be held this weekend, and Natalie is expected to fly to Sydney this afternoon.

Ronan Keating flew out this morning, without his wife Yvonne, who he admitted to cheating on earlier this week. The couple have reportedly decided to stay together until Ronan returns to the UK in November.

The X Factor debuted in Australia in 2005, but received poor reviews and ratings. It was cancelled after one season, but has now been renewed after increased interest in the UK series of the show.

Natalie shot to fame on Australian soap opera Neighbours in the 1990s, before enjoying success as a singer.
sections: Celebrities