You’re working on director P.J. Hogan’s latest masterpiece, Mental, which also stars Toni Collette. How does that feel?
I’m 46 and it’s my first big film role. I’ve had a few small roles (including Clubland in 2007), but this is a larger role and to work alongside Toni Colette is exciting. It’s a dream come true.

Tell us more about the movie, your role and how this role is different to your character, Julie, in Packed to the Rafters.
The fi lm is written and directed by P.J. and it's a comedy loosely based on his life. My character is a downtrodden mother of five girls who ends up in a mental institution. She's completely let herself go, totally different to Julie Rafter. It is a great comedic role. Toni plays the woman who turns our lives around. We’re in fine company as the movie also stars Anthony LaPaglia and Leiv Schrieber.

The movie is set to make a huge mark locally and internationally. Is that daunting?
We’re all hoping for great things with the movie. Universal Pictures Australia’s Mike Baird said the script for Mental is one of the most incredible he has read. I said to P.J., "Can I go to Cannes as well?" He said, "Absolutely honey, we'll go all the way". And I'm thinking, gee, wouldn't that be great!

You’ve had to transform yourself for the role. How hard has that been?
I've had to gain weight for the role; I’ve already put on 12 kilos. The first six were easy…icecream, peanut butter, you can eat anything. It’s like being pregnant! The last six kilos have been hard because I think I do look unhealthy, but I know it’s for an incredible role. I’m hiding it well – it’s amazing what a Spanx can do!

And how does it feel to be the new face of Olay Regenerist?
I am so absolutely flattered. I’ve been using Olay for years; it’s the perfect partnership. I was actually introduced to the brand by my mother many years ago. I did an intensive 14-day trial with Olay
Regenerist range before signing. I have always been very honest about my skincare and I have really noticed a difference using this! Great skincare has always been a part of my daily routine and I can truly say that Olay Regenerist makes a difference. I feel as though I’m flying the flag for the middle-aged woman as well. Girls, there is definitely life after 40!