Mel B has been confirmed as the new host of the Australian version of 'Dancing with the Stars'.

The former Spice Girls singer - who competed in the US version of the ballroom dancing show in 2007 - has signed a reported $1 million deal to present the show and says she can't wait to start work.

Mel - who is also a judge on the Australian 'X Factor' - said: "Doing 'Dancing with the Stars' in America changed me. I've danced all my life, and, of course, with the Spice Girls, but there was something so intoxicating about learning to dance in such a classic, trained way. It was intense, but I loved every moment. I'm still annoyed I didn't win!

"As any contestant on 'DWTS' will tell you, it does change your life. I will be bringing my experiences to the show, and will be very protective of this year's group."

Mel - who raises three children with husband Stephen Belafonte - is to relocate to Sydney from Los Angeles after falling in love with the Australian way of life.

The 36-year-old star - who hails from Leeds, Northern England - told the Sunday Telegraph newspaper: "I didn't know if packing up and moving here would work so I tested the waters - just as I'm sure Stephen tested the waters with my accent and humour and how people responded to me.

"And luckily it worked out really well. The kids love it here, it's a similar lifestyle to LA but it's somewhat better.

"I feel like it's going to be my Aussie, Sydney year." - Bang Showbiz