Wendy Hughes dies aged 61

Australian actor Wendy Hughes has died aged 61.

The well-known actor, best known for her roles in My Brilliant Career and State Coroner, is believed to have died of cancer on Saturday morning.

Fairfax reports that actor Bryan Brown told an audience at the Sydney Theatre Company of the actor's death, leading a standing ovation.

Born in Melbourne, Hughes worked across television, film and stage.

She won an AFI award in 1983 for her role in Careful, He Might Hear You.

Hughes leaves behind a daughter, Charlotte, and son, Jay.