Controversial R’n’B singer Chris Brown has cancelled his tours of Australia and New Zealand after earlier being refused a visa over his history of domestic violence.

Brown was charged and convicted in 2009 for assaulting and threatening to kill his then-girlfriend, Barbados-born singer Rihanna. He was sentenced to five years’ probation.

He had attempted to appeal a decision by the Federal Government in September that banned him from entering Australia.

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At the time, Brown took to Twitter to plead his case, stating his “mistakes should be a wake-up call for everyone”.

‘These hoes ain’t loyal’ form the lyrics to one of the singer’s quintessential tracks. Photo: Getty

“I would be more than grateful to come to Australia to raise awareness on domestic violence, I am not the pink elephant in the room anymore,” he said.

“My life mistakes should be a wake-up call for everyone. Showing the world that mistakes don’t define you. Trying to prevent spousal abuse.”

But fans were informed on Wednesday via email that his planned tour of Australia and New Zealand had been cancelled.

“Mr Brown and the promoters remain positive that the tour will take place in the near future,” the email said.

“Mr Brown wishes to express his deepest gratitude to the fans for their support and looks forward to a successful tour in the near future.”

An immigration spokesperson said Brown had withdrawn his application for a New Zealand visa voluntarily.

Refunds will be available to fans who purchased tickets to the cancelled shows, but the announcement came as a disappointment for many fans.

Melburnians weren’t so kind to the controversial rapper. Photo: Twitter

Bunbury’s Deanne Phillips had planned on going to Brown’s Perth concert, originally slated for December 9, and said the short notice would be an inconvenience to her. Her ticket cost $161.

She said Brown was a “changed man”.

“He wasn’t coming out to hurt anyone,” Ms Phillips said.

“He was just coming out to sing songs and have a good time. He’s a changed man, especially since he had a daughter.”

Brown shares joint custody of his daughter, Royalty, with former girlfriend Nia Guzman.

“But, I don’t think any of that meant he shouldn’t be allowed into Australia. I think we all could have learnt a lot from his mistakes. He’s been honest about it and said he’s sorry,” Ms Phillips said.

-ABC, with agencies