Singer Kylie Minogue has been formally appointed OBE by the Prince of Wales at a Buckingham Palace ceremony.
The 40-year-old, best known for hits including I Should Be So Lucky and Spinning Around, was successfully treated for breast cancer in 2005.
Minogue, who wore a cream-coloured dress decorated with large stars, said it was "overwhelming" and "emotional".
"I knew I would be nervous. I was very excited and to have my family here was magical," she said.
Minogue, who chatted to other guests at the investiture, said: "I do feel very proud. I think my job, aside from making music, is about communication and this symbolises my communication with my audience around the world."
She said she was "slightly less nervous" about meeting Prince Charles because the two had met before.
"He asked me what I'm up to at the moment and said he is happy to see me better," the singer added.
Of her medal, she said: "I'll admire it for a while, and then keep it safe in its box."
In pictures: Kylie at the Palace
Minogue began her career as an actress in Australian series Skyways and The Henderson Kids before securing the role of mechanic Charlene Mitchell in soap opera Neighbours.
Since embarking on her pop career she has continued to reinvent herself, and recently revealed she planned to continue singing on stage until the age of 60.
In May she received France's highest cultural honour, the Order of Arts and Letters.
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