Winfrey pays "respects" to Aboriginals

Oprah Winfrey has paid her "respects" to Aboriginal people in Australia.

The chatshow host, who is currently touring around the country before hosting two episodes in the Sydney Opera House, said that she wanted to find out more about their culture when visiting sacred indigenous site Uluru.

Winfrey told AAP: "Me being here is a way to pay my respects to the Aboriginal people while showing respect for the land, their culture and all this rock means to them and the continent and the world."

The star reportedly only visited the landmark formerly known as Ayers Rock because singer Paul Simon recommended it.

Winfrey is scheduled to arrive in Melbourne for a public appearance in Federation Square today.