Miley Cyrus thinks Australians are "hotter" than other nationalities.

The 'Last Song' actress - who is engaged to Australian actor Liam Hemsworth - thinks men from the country are particularly masculine and echo her own upbringing in Nashville, Tennessee.

She said: "Australians are way hotter, there's no competition. I think there's a masculinity about Australian guys that is probably like growing up in the South, like I did. They are a little bit more respectful I suppose."

Miley also gushed about Liam's willingness to work hard, praising him for being "passionate" about his craft like her father Billy Ray Cyrus is about music.

She added to People.com: "My dad has always been a really hard worker, so I like when men work hard. I think it's important and I always work really hard, so it's good to have someone who is passionate about what they do, and wants to be great at what they do."

Despite being just 19, insiders close to Miley claim she and 22-year-old Liam are ready for marriage, but do not want to rush.

A source said: "They are both mature and ready for this. Miley is 19 going on 40. Right now they are enjoying being engaged. There is no rush."