Harry Styles wins Best International Artist at 2017 ARIA Awards

28 November 2017

Harry Styles used his speech at the ARIA (Annual Australian Recording Industry Association) Awards to celebrate Australia's vote for marriage equality.

Harry Styles

The 23-year-old pop star - who donned a snazzy purple suit - was awarded the prestigious Best International Artist 2017 for his debut self-titled album at the glitzy event held at The Star in Sydney on Tuesday night (28.11.17).

After collecting his prize, the 'Signs of the Times' singer thanked his fans for their support and their "recent political decision", which means same-sex marriage is now legalised in the country.

He said: "Every time I've ever been in Australia over the last several years, everyone has always been so wonderful to me.

"Thank you for having me here and having me back.

"I obviously wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the fans who voted.

"Congratulations on your recent political decision."

Actresses Rebel Wilson and Ruby Rose - who were in the country promoting their new film 'Pitch Perfect 3' - presented the award to Harry and just before he got up on stage, the One Direction star gave fellow pop star Lorde a kiss on the cheek after he beat her to win the accolade.

The heartthrob also sung his latest single 'Kiwi', however, his performance was plagued with technical issues and he was forced to start the song again.

Other notable winners on the night included Sia, who picked up the Best Female Artist gong for her track with Kendrick Lamar, 'The Greatest'.

The main winners at the 2017 ARIA Awards are as follows:

Best Female Artist - Sia for 'The Greatest' feat. Kendrick Lamar

Best Male Artist - Paul Kelly for 'Life Is Fine'

Best Group - Gang of Youths for 'Go Farther in Lightness'

Best International Artist - Harry Styles for self-titled album

Best Blues & Roots Album - All Our Exes Live in Texas for When We Fall

Best Independent Release - A.B. Original for Reclaim Australia

Best Country Album - Kasey Chambers for 'Dragonfly'

Best Dance Release - Pnau for 'Chameleon'

Best Children's Album - Jimmy Barnes for Och Aye the G'Nu!

Best Rock Album - Gang of Youths for 'Go Farther in Lightness'