Miley Cyrus has defended Justin Bieber.

The 20-year-old Canadian has grown up in the public spotlight and his erratic behaviour over the last couple of years has often landed the singer in hot water.

However, Cyrus - who similarly has been in the showbiz industry since her youth - told Australia's Today Show that people need to back off Bieber and let him mature at his own pace.

She said: "I think people should have time to grow up and figure out who they are. I think people need to sit and think of the times in their lives they were not proud of who they were.

"Imagine if that was completely exploited and everyone had their opinions."

Cyrus meanwhile was in Australia to promote her upcoming Bangerz Tour run in the country, which will kick off on October 10.

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Watch Miley Cyrus being interviewed below: