Australia Back In the Eurovision

Australia will compete in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2016 for the second time.

12:59 19 November 2015

Eurovision organisers have confirmed that Australia will join the song content in 2016 for the second time. The country will send an entry 10,000 miles, making the content a "truly global event."

 

Last year, Guy Sebastian, who was the Australian wildcard entry, performed Tonight Again, which came in fifth.

 

"We strongly believe the Eurovision Song Contest has the potential to evolve organically into a truly global event," said Jon Ola Sand, the contest's executive supervisor.

 

"Australia's continued participation is an exciting step in that direction."

 

The EBU Reference Group, the governing body of the Eurovision Song Contest, has approved Australia's participation next year. It is yet to decide whether the country would become a permanent participant.

 

"Europe and Australia have a lot in common in regards to cultural values," said EBU governor Frank Dieter Freiling. "The only right thing to do is to be inclusive.

 

"This is also a way for many Australians to re-connect with their European roots, and celebrate our shared cultural values and understanding through music."

 

If Australia wins the content in 2017, the show will be co-hosted by Australian broadcaster SBS and an EBU member based in Europe.