Australian singer Jessica Mauboy was celebrating on Tuesday night (25Sep12) after picking up the female artist of the year trophy at the country's Deadly Awards for the second year running.

Mauboy was overwhelmed as she took to the stage at the Sydney Opera House to accept her honour, which recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander achievements in entertainment, music, sport and the community.

The star singled out her mother, who was in the audience, for praise during her acceptance speech, declaring, "Thank you for allowing me to be who I am."

Musician Gurrumul, who was named Artist of the Year at Australia's National Indigenous Music Awards last month (Aug12), was honoured with the male equivalent of the prize.