Olivia Newton-John to be honoured in state memorial

A tribute to Olivia Newton-John at the ARIA awards
Olivia Newton-John has been hailed as a hero for her contributions to the arts and philanthropy. -AAP Image

Late performer Olivia Newton-John will be honoured in a state memorial following her death from breast cancer at age 73.

The Grease star will be remembered at a free, ticketed service to be held on Sunday, February 26 featuring tributes from family and friends.

The event at Hamer Hall, at Arts Centre Melbourne, will include a performance from singer Delta Goodrem, who played Newton-John in a 2018 miniseries.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews hailed Newton-John as a hero for her contributions to the arts, philanthropy and raising cancer awareness.

"Dame Olivia Newton-John was an inspiration to many around the world – her work in cancer research and treatment saved lives and changed lives and her music was the soundtrack to a generation," he said.

"We know Victorians are eager to celebrate the life of a driving force in medical research and an icon of film and music, with a service befitting her international acclaim."