That Aussie Eurovision Spin-Off Could Happen Sooner Than You Think

It was reported earlier this year that Australian network and national Eurovision broadcaster SBS were working on launching their own version of the singing competition and now, given how well the country placed at the 2016 event, those plans could be rushed ahead much sooner than first thought. 

After Dami Im came in at a close second this past weekend, news.com.au are reporting that the new show, Asiavision, could launch as early as next year in Australia.

It was originally hoped that the event would go ahead in 2017, however executives conceded that 2018 was a more realistic time. 

"I think (this year’s Eurovision) renews our confidence in the idea that this is a big brand…what I can say is that we’re absolutely working on plans to get this happening next year," SBS chief content officer Helen Kellie said. 

SBS are currently in discussions with China, Korea, Japan and possibly India to join the new singing contest for the Asia Pacific region, while it is hoped 12 countries in total will participate. 

Kellie confirmed that a number of people have been in contact following Im's acclaimed Eurovision performance. 

"Absolutely, we’ve had a lot of interest," Kellie revealed.

"At the moment, our focus is on getting that reference group going. We want a set of partners to help us shape what the show is."

If Asiavision is launched next year, it is still hoped that Australia will be invited to compete at future Eurovision events. 

"We’ll have everything crossed that we’re invited to compete again, but it’s very much their choice," Kellie said.