November 23rd, 2009 12:12 am

Stan Walker wins ‘Australian Idol’

Stan Walker has triumphed over Hayley Warner to become the next ‘Australian Idol’.

Melbourne-born, New Zealand-raised Stan Walker has won the title of the seventh ‘Australian Idol’.

Despite the sweltering heat, the two finalists took to the stage outside the Sydney Opera House as the 2009 winner was announced.

The 18-year old triumphed over his fellow finalist 17-year old Hayley Warner, in the 2-hour live event.

Joining the ‘Australian Idol’ top 12 singers on stage were Michael Buble, Mika, Wes Carr and Guy Sebastian — who performed solo due to Jordin Sparks’ last minute cancellation.

While ‘Australian Idol’ has struggled in the ratings this season, falling below the magic 1 million viewer mark on several occasions — the series is still expected to return in 2010, thanks to the show’s continued “stickiness” on the web, mobiles and through other advertising avenues.

Walker wins a recording contract with Sony Music and a $200,000 artist’s development fund to further his music career.

His debut single “Black Box” is now available on bandit.fm and iTunes.