Australia: SBS in discussions with EBU regarding Eurovision participation!

The Australian public broadcaster, SBS, revealed today that they are in discussions with the EBU as far as the future participation at the Eurovision Song Contest in concerned.

Initially Australia were invited to participate for a one-off for the 60th anniversary of the Eurovision Song Contest in 2015. After finished in 5th place of the Grand Final – where they automatically qualified – the country were invited for the years followed until 2019 when a 5-year contract was signed between SBS and EBU allowing Australia to take part without an invitation.

However 2023 was the last year that Australia were able to do so, something that has already triggered questions in Eurofans circles regarding the participation of the biggest country of Oceania at the upcoming 2024 Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö, Sweden.

SBS commented the following on the matter:

“Eurovision is a cherished part of the SBS family. Australia’s future participation in the song contest is currently in discussion. We understand Eurovision fans are eager for an update and appreciate their patience as we work through these next steps. We’ll confirm details as soon as we are able.”

The deadline for the nations to withdraw without any penalty is on 11th of October which means that there is still time for SBS and EBU to reach an agreement.

In 2023 Australia was represented by Voyager and the song Promise and after managing to win the Second Semi-Final, they finished in the top ten of the Grand Final and specifically in 9th place with 151 points.

What do you think the outcome of the negotiations between SBS and EBU? Will we see Australia in Malmö next year? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Stay tuned on Eurovisionfun for all the updates around the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest!