Australia’s Eurovision Journey
Australia’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest is a unique and fascinating chapter in the contest’s history. Starting in 2015, Australia was initially invited as a one-off guest to celebrate the contest’s 60th anniversary. However, their strong performance and enthusiastic reception from European audiences led to a permanent spot in the competition.
The invitation stemmed from Australia’s long-standing love affair with Eurovision. The contest has a huge following Down Under, broadcast live and often attracting large viewing figures. This passion, coupled with a strategic alliance with the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), paved the way for their formal inclusion.
Australia’s debut was a resounding success. Guy Sebastian, a popular Australian singer, performed “Tonight Again” and finished fifth. This impressive start solidified Australia’s place and demonstrated their commitment to taking the contest seriously. Australia doesn’t have to qualify for the grand final, which is due to their continued strong performance in the competition.
Since then, Australia has consistently sent high-quality acts, often featuring established singers or promising newcomers. Dami Im’s powerful performance of “Sound of Silence” in 2016 secured second place, Australia’s best result to date. Other notable entries include Isaiah Firebrace, Jessica Mauboy (a previous interval act), Kate Miller-Heidke with her spectacular staging, and Montaigne, who represented Australia virtually during the pandemic.
The choice of the Australian entry is typically determined through a national selection process called “Eurovision – Australia Decides.” This allows the public to vote alongside a jury, ensuring a democratic and representative selection. This competition has boosted the profile of Australian artists and provides a platform for emerging talent to gain international exposure.
Australia’s continued involvement in Eurovision has raised some interesting questions about the definition of “European” in the context of the contest. Despite its geographical location, Australia’s cultural ties with Europe and its unwavering dedication to the competition have justified its participation in the eyes of the EBU and Eurovision fans. The country’s inclusion adds a unique flavour to the contest, bringing a fresh perspective and broadening the show’s global appeal.
While the geographical distance presents logistical challenges, such as travel and time zone differences, Australia’s commitment remains strong. They see Eurovision as a valuable platform for showcasing Australian music and culture to a global audience, and they continue to embrace the spirit of the contest with enthusiasm and dedication.
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