Australia will broadcast next year's contest, but will they compete?
The Australian broadcaster, Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) have recently revealed via the Australian news site ‘TV Tonight’ that they will be broadcasting the Eurovision Song Contest in 2024. Although this comes as somewhat promising news for Aussie Eurovision fans, it has not yet been confirmed whether or not Australia will be able to participate in next year’s edition in Malmö.
Negotiations between SBS and the EBU are currently taking place regarding whether Australia will be participating in Malmö next year, there are a few reasons for these discussions. Australia have been a committed participant at Eurovision a staggering eight times since their debut back in 2015, where the country was granted the honor to compete on a one off occasion.
However, to many Eurovision fan’s surprise Australia was invited back to compete each year by the EBU, eventually a deal was reached between SBS and the EBU that granted Australia permission to compete for five years from 2019. The five year period has now come to an end in 2023, but as negotiations go on many Eurovison fans hope that this is not a bid farewell to our friends down under.
An SBS spokesperson expressed their feelings surrounding the current situation, sharing “Eurovision is a cherished part of the SBS family, our intention is for Australia to remain in the competition and we are currently in discussions. We’ll confirm details as soon as we are able.”
Over the last eight editions of the Eurovision Song Contest, Australia has showcased some sensation talent, achieving five Top 10 placings in their short history taking part. The best Australian result so far was back in 2016 where the incredible Dami Im finished in 2nd place behind Ukraine’s Jamala. Dami Im captured the hearts of so many with her song “Sound Of Silence”. Since 2019 Australia has held its own National Final each year to determine it’s representative for the forthcoming contest.
If results and fan favourites are anything to go by, Australia has certainly paved the way and earned their place as a worthy Eurovision participant, and news of SBS broadcasting next year’s contest may be the glimmer of hope many are seeking. As negotiations continue, and the application deadline for countries wanting to participate in Eurovision 2024 having closed, all will be revealed in coming weeks as to whether or not Australia will be competing in the Eurovision Song Contest 2024.
Do you think the Australia will be allowed to compete at Eurovision 2024? Who is your dream Australian entry for next year’s edition of the contest? Which other countries would you love to see debut or return? Let us know in the comments below!
