Chrissy Amphlett, the Australian rock chick behind the 1991 hit 'I Touch Myself', has died aged 53 following a lengthy battle with both MS and breast cancer.

The Divinyls front woman first revealed her struggle with multiple sclerosis back in 2007 and then in 2010 she posted a message to her official Facebook page that confirmed she had been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Amphlett's husband and former Divinyls drummer Charley Drayton issued a statement on the tragic news and revealed that she died in her sleep in their New York home: "Chrissy's light burns so very brightly. Hers was a life of passion and creativity; she always lived it to the fullest. With her force of character and vocal strength she paved the way for strong, sexy, outspoken women."

Her cousin, Her cousin Patricia Thompson said: 'Our beloved Chrissy peacefully made her transition this morning. Christine Joy Amphlett succumbed to the effects of breast cancer and multiple sclerosis, diseases she vigorously fought with exceptional bravery and dignity. She passed gently, in her sleep, surrounded by close friends and family, including husband of fourteen years, musician Charley Drayton, her sister Leigh, nephew Matt, and cousin Patricia Thompson ("Little Pattie").'

In March last year, the Aussie star posted on Facebook: "Unfortunately the last 18 months have been a real challenge for me, having breast cancer and MS and all the new places that will take you. My illnesses have really exhausted this little body of mine that I have thrown from one end of a stage to another and performed thousands of shows."

Divinyls peaked No.1 in the Australian charts, No.4 in America and No.10 in Britain with 'I Touch Myself' and last month, Amphlett was named one of the Top 10 best Australian singers of all time.