Pop star Kylie Minogue gave her backing to Australian troops stationed in East Timor this Christmas by performing at a special concert for them.

The singer was given an enthusiastic welcome by soldiers and hundreds of local children when she arrived in the town of Suai on Monday, before travelling to the capital Dili to take part in Tuesday's show.

She was joined by fellow Australian singer John Farnham for the performance, which was also broadcast live on Australian television.

Minogue told the troops: "Everyone I've spoken to is so proud to be here. In a very small way we are coming over, showing our support."

The show is aimed at boosting morale among the 4,500 Australian troops in the region.

They lead an 7,500-strong international peacekeeping force, drafted in after widespread violence following the territory's vote for independence from Indonesia in August.

Now 31, Minogue has spent this year writing material for her new album.

She signed to Parlophone Records in the UK during the summer after being dropped by the deConstruction label in 1998, and has been working with club act Brothers In Rhythm.