Eurovision could be set to arrive on Australian shores, after SBS revealed it has secured the exclusive rights to establish the Eurovision Song Contest concept in the Asia-Pacific region.
SBS has inked a deal with Eurovision owners, the European Broadcasting Union, to develop the regions own version of the unique song contest and if this all goes ahead, the inaugural event would be hosted by Australia in 2017.
SBS outlined that the broadcast rights will be licensed on a global basis and the event will offer the chance for Asia Pacific countries to showcase their song writing and performing talent to the world.
SBS managing director Michael Ebeid says: “As the official broadcaster of Eurovision for over 30 years, SBS is pleased to explore the opportunity to bring an event of this calibre more closely to our shores, strengthening the multicultural ties in our region.
“Asia Pacific has a spectacular music culture and the perfect next step to extend the Eurovision brand, bringing its hugely popular appeal beyond Australian audiences and to the wider region.”
Ebeid explained that SBS sees entertainment as one area in which the broadcaster can play an active role in strengthening Australia’s ties with Asia as part of its overall commitment to “reflecting multiculturalism and contributing to the social health of our communities”.
“We are pleased with the very early discussions across the region and look forward to working with our neighbouring broadcasters to realise this vision,” he added.
SBS Eurovision production partners Blink TV would play a lead role in developing Eurovision Asia as a broadcast event.
Over the next few months it will lead discussions with potential sponsors, commercial partners and regional broadcasters with hopes to bring this event to life in 2017.
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