Since its inception in 1956, the Eurovision Song Contest has evolved from a European-centric event into a global cultural phenomenon, embracing participants from diverse regions. While initially limited to European countries, the contest has progressively welcomed nations beyond its traditional borders. Notably, the Caucasus region, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, made their debuts in the early 2000s, and Israel has been a longstanding participant. Turkey, straddling Europe and Asia, participated until 2012, withdrawing due to concerns over the perceived advantages of the ‘Big Five’ countries. Even Morocco ventured into the contest in 1980, and Lebanon planned to debut in 2005 but withdrew due to political tensions. However, the most significant expansion occurred in 2015 when Australia joined the Eurovision family, marking a pivotal moment in the contest’s history.
Australia’s journey to Eurovision began with the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) airing the contest in 1983. Over the years, the event garnered a dedicated fanbase, with SBS enhancing its coverage by introducing local commentators and broadcasting special anniversary programs. Despite the time difference, with live broadcasts airing at 5:00 AM AEST, Australian audiences remained enthusiastic. In 2015, to commemorate Eurovision’s 60th anniversary, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) extended a special invitation to Australia, allowing direct entry into the Grand Final. Guy Sebastian represented the nation with “Tonight Again,” securing an impressive fifth place. The following year, Dami Im’s “Sound of Silence” achieved Australia’s best result to date, finishing second.
Australia’s participation continued with notable entries: Isaiah’s “Don’t Come Easy” in 2017, Jessica Mauboy’s return in 2018, and Kate Miller-Heidke’s “Zero Gravity” in 2019, which introduced the national selection show, ‘Australia Decides.’ The 2020 contest was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Montaigne returned in 2021 with “Technicolour,” marking the first time Australia failed to qualify for the Grand Final. Sheldon Riley’s “Not the Same” in 2022 and Voyager’s “Promise” in 2023 both reached the finals, with Voyager finishing ninth. In 2024, Electric Fields represented Australia with “One Milkali (One Blood),” incorporating Indigenous language and culture, though they did not advance to the final.
Looking ahead to Eurovision 2025 in Basel, Switzerland, Australia will be represented by TikTok sensation Go-Jo with the song “Milkshake Man.” Co-written with members of the band Sheppard, the track aims to inspire confidence and positivity. Go-Jo, also known as Marty Zambotto, gained fame with his viral hit “Mrs Hollywood,” amassing over 60 million streams and 1 billion views. His selection continues Australia’s tradition of showcasing diverse and contemporary talent on the Eurovision stage. As the contest approaches, fans eagerly anticipate Australia’s performance and the potential for another strong showing in the competition.