Christine Anu

Maia Christine Anu, born on 15 March 1970, is an Australian singer-songwriter and actress of Torres Strait Islander origin. She became well-known when she released a popular cover song of the Warumpi Band’s "My Island Home" in 1995.

Anu has been recognized for her talent with many nominations and wins, including several ARIA Awards and five Deadly Awards. In August 2024, she shared a new album and single called Waku: Minaral a Minalay.

Before becoming a famous singer, Anu started her career as a dancer. She has also worked in film, on stage including musical theatre, and on television. She has hosted the Weekend Evenings radio show on ABC Radio.

Early life and education

Maia Christine Anu was born on 15 March 1970 in Cairns, Queensland. She grew up with her Torres Strait Islander mother and stepfather. Her stepfather was a respected singer from Saibai Island and encouraged her to enjoy music and singing.

Christine went to Emmaus College in Rockhampton and finished her studies there in 1987. She loved dancing and moved to Sydney to study at the National Aboriginal and Islander Skills Development Association, which later became NAISDA Dance College. She earned a degree in dance in 1992.

Career

Christine Anu began her career as a dancer and was part of dance troupes like the Bangarra Dance Theatre. She later started singing backup vocals and released her first recording in 1993. Her big break came in 1995 when she covered the song "My Island Home," which became very popular. That same year, she released her first album, Stylin' Up, which was very successful.

Anu has won many awards for her music, including several ARIA Awards and Deadly Awards. She has also acted in films, television, and stage shows. Some of her notable acting roles include performances in Moulin Rouge! and the musical Rent. Anu has also appeared on television shows and hosted radio programs, sharing her talents in many different ways.

Personal life

Christine Anu is a mother to a son named Kuiam and a daughter named Zipporah Corser Anu. Zipporah’s father is actor Rodger Corser, and she also shows musical talent.

Anu married her childhood sweetheart, Simon Deutrom, in 2010, though he is not the father of her children. In 2016, they announced they were separating and later divorced. She has spoken about facing challenges with her health and appeared on a television show to share her experiences.

Discography

Christine Anu has released many albums throughout her career. Some of her studio albums include Stylin' Up from 1995, Come My Way in 2000, and 45 Degrees in 2003. She also released live albums such as Intimate and Deadly in 2010 and ReStylin' Up 20 Years in 2015.

Filmography

Films and television

Theatre and stage performances

The following list includes selected stage performances by Anu.

Awards and nominations

At the 2025 NAIDOC Awards, Anu received the Creative Talent Award.

The ARIA Music Awards are yearly events organized by the Australian Recording Industry Association. They started in 1987 and honor great work in all types of Australian music. Anu has won several ARIA Awards.

The Australian Women in Music Awards began in 2018 to celebrate women who have made big impacts in the Australian Music Industry.

The Deadly Awards, also called The Deadlys, were held each year from 1996 to 2013 to honor Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in music, sports, entertainment, and their communities.

The National Indigenous Music Awards each year recognize the success of Indigenous Australians in music.

The Queensland Music Awards started in 2006 to support new artists from Queensland, Australia.