Austria has international bragging rights after taking out the Eurovision song contest in Switzerland. Winning artist JJ used the moment of triumph to say love is the world's strongest force

Basel

Austria has secured a win at the Eurovision Song Contest, marking the third victory for the Central European nation in the competition's history. The winning artist, 24-year-old Johannes Petsch, known as JJ, impressed audiences with an operatic ballad performance. The contest, known for its creative displays and theatrical productions, featured a range of special effects, including fireworks, light shows, and elaborate stage setups.

Australian fans participated in the festivities, with watch parties held across the country. In Sydney’s south, approximately 500 people gathered in a Hurstville auditorium to view the event, reflecting the local community's strong ancestral connections to Eurovision-participating countries.

Australia was represented by Gojo, also known as the "milkshake man," who did not win this year’s contest. Organisers and fans expressed optimism for future Australian participation in the competition.



Austrian singer JJ wins Eurovision 2025

It's the Olympics of Music, the Met Gala of Song, where voice is one element of the show but it's more of a work of art and creativity is king. But it was Austria awarded the crowning glory. One hundred and seventeen years! 24-year-old artist Johannes Petsch, or JJ, hitting the high notes with an operatic ballad. It's the third time the Central European nation has taken out the top goal. Watch parties across Australia joining in the celebration. Five hundred people packed into a Hurstville auditorium in Sydney's south. We have about two thirds of our residents that have ancestral ties to countries that participate in Eurovision, so we knew that there certainly would be an appetite. The contest had it all. Special effects, fireworks raining from above, impressive light shows and dance breaks. And there can never be enough flames igniting the stage, exploding into the air or burning in trees. Australia's milkshake man Gojo might not have brought home the trophy, but there's always next year for Down Under to come out on top. Sarah Navin for Ten News First.

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