Australia will be continuing their Eurovision journey in Lisbon!
Since their supposed ‘one-off’ appearance at Eurovision 2015, Australia has been on a year to year basis as to whether they will participate at Eurovision. It seems we’ve impressed Europe and the EBU enough to secure our spot in the contest for at least one more year! SBS has confirmed that Australia will be present in Lisbon next year, marking the fourth participation of the nation.
The Managing Director of SBS, Michael Ebeid has said ‘SBS is proud to secure Australia’s return as competitors in the Eurovision Song Contest for the fourth year, as the country’s unique affection and passion for Eurovision continues to grow. In Guy, Dami and Isaiah, SBS has showcased the incredible talent of Australia’s musical performers on the world stage, and in turn, the wonderful diversity that makes up Australia today’
It’s unsure how Australia will be selecting their 2018 Eurovision act. For the previous three years, SBS has internally selected their act, often leaving it until quite late in the national selection period to announce their singer and song. There have been murmurs saying that perhaps SBS would opt for a Melodifestivalen style national final, however this remains to be seen.
What we do know is that Myf Warhurst and Joel Creasey will be returning as the commentators for SBS. They made their debut in 2017, after former duo Julia Zemiro and Sam Pang stood down from the role.
We also recently discussed the confirmation of Eurovision Asia as a branch off Eurovision, which would very likely feature Australia. With Australia now confirmed for Eurovision, it’s fair to say that perhaps Eurovision Asia is still a while off from being a reality, rather than just a confirmed idea in development. Watch this space!
Stay tuned for more news regarding Australia’s selection process!