Australia's Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) has stated it will not join a growing number of European Union countries in boycotting the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if Israel is allowed to compete. The decision on Israel's inclusion will be made by the contest's governing body in December, but SBS confirmed to the Guardian on Tuesday that it intends to participate regardless of the outcome.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has extended the deadline for broadcasters to confirm participation to mid-December, citing a need for “additional flexibility and clarity” while consulting member broadcasters. Several countries, including Ireland, Slovenia, Spain, the Netherlands, and Iceland, have indicated they will withdraw if Israel competes, citing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Israeli media had reported that the EBU informally proposed to Israel's public broadcaster Kan that it either step aside or compete under a neutral symbol. However, EBU director Martin Green denied this, stating: “The EBU has not made any proposals to Kan regarding participation in next year’s Eurovision song contest.” He added that the EBU respects any decision broadcasters make.
Kan CEO Golan Yochpaz defended Israel's participation, calling Eurovision a cultural celebration and highlighting Israel's strong recent record. Meanwhile, the Australian Greens and the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN) have called for SBS to boycott. Greens senator David Shoebridge accused Eurovision of “gross double standards” for banning Russia over Ukraine but allowing Israel, while APAN president Nasser Mashni argued that countries should boycott if Israel is permitted to compete.
SBS declined to confirm any contact from the EBU regarding Israel's participation. A spokesperson said: “SBS intends to continue this tradition with its participation in the 2026 Eurovision song contest. The decision regarding Israel’s participation will be made by the EBU over the coming months.”
