Claudia Karvan is one of Australia's most recognised actresses, having achieved popular success and critical acclaim through her work in film and television.Having begun work at 14, Karvan has an extensive filmography. She first appeared in Gillian Armstrong's 'High Tide' (1987) with Judy Davis, then in Phillip Noyce's 'Echoes of Paradise' (1987). Since this time Karvan has captivated audiences with her remarkable talent and beauty.Although celebrated for her dramatic prowess, Karvan first exhibited her gift for comedy in 'The Big Steal' (1990). Then - amongst other projects - she appeared in the romantic-drama 'The Heartbreak Kid' (1993), for which she won an Australian Film Critics Circle award for Best Actress. In 1996 Karvan starred in the film that she is probably best known for, 'Dating the Enemy', opposite Guy Pearce. Karvan delighted audiences in this romantic-comedy with her charming portrayal of a man trapped in a woman's body. She later went on to star in another romantic comedy, with another Australian favourite - Hugh Jackman - in 'Paperback Hero' (1999).Karvan's other features include 'Broken Highway' (1993 - official selection for the 1994 Cannes International Film Festival), 'Exile' (1994), 'Lust and Revenge' (1996), 'Strange Planet' (1999), and 'Risk' (2000) with Bryan Brown. But it was her part as Dr Alex Christensen on the popular Australian television series 'The Secret Life of Us' (2001) that was the most significant turning point in her career. Karvan has credited this role, as well as her occasional turn in the director's chair, with allowing her to gain more control of her work - something for which she has always strived.Between 1987 and 2004 Karvan has been nominated for twelve Australian Film Institute (AFI) Awards, and won her category - Best Actress in a Leading Role in a Television Drama - in 1996 for her role in G.P. In 1998 she received The Palm Springs Short Film Festival Audience Favourite Award for Two Girls and a Baby.