Get ready for a night of glitz, glamour, and groundbreaking music—the ARIA Awards are almost here! But here's where it gets controversial: With Ninajirachi leading the pack with eight nominations, some are already calling this the year of the underdog. Will she sweep the major categories, or will established names like Missy Higgins and Kylie Minogue take home the trophies? And this is the part most people miss—the ARIAs aren't just about the awards; they're a celebration of Australian music's diversity, from electronic beats to soulful melodies. So, when and where can you catch all the action? Let's break it down.
When and Where to Watch the ARIAs
The ARIA Awards, Australia's premier music awards ceremony—famous for its sleek, pointy silver trophies—is set to dazzle audiences this week. ARIA, short for the Australian Recording Industry Association, shares its name with a musical term: an elaborate melody for a single voice, often found in operas or oratorios. This year, the ceremony takes place at Sydney's iconic Hordern Pavilion, hosted by Triple j Breakfast's Concetta Caristo and Nova's Tim Blackwell.
Mark your calendars: the awards are tomorrow afternoon, streaming live on Paramount+ from 5pm AEDT. Can't catch it live? No worries! Tune in to Channel 10 later that night for the free-to-air broadcast, starting with the red-carpet show at 7pm AEDT. As for the exact ceremony time, the ARIA website playfully notes it'll air 'following Big Brother,' so keep an eye out.
Who's in the Spotlight?
With 29 categories up for grabs, the competition is fierce. Leading the nominations is Ninajirachi, whose debut album I Love My Computer has earned her nods in major categories like Album of the Year, Best Solo Artist, and Best Independent and Electronic Release. But here's the bold question: Can an electronic artist dominate a traditionally diverse field? Only time will tell.
Here’s a sneak peek at the nominees for the top three awards:
Album of the Year
- Amyl and The Sniffers – Cartoon Darkness
- Missy Higgins – The Second Act
- Ninajirachi – I Love My Computer
- RÜFÜS DU SOL – Inhale / Exhale
- Thelma Plum – I'm Sorry, Now Say It Back
Best Solo Artist
- BARKAA – Big Tidda
- Dom Dolla – DREAMIN’
- Kylie Minogue – Tension II
- Mallrat – Light hit my face like a straight right
- Missy Higgins – The Second Act
- Ninajirachi – I Love My Computer
- Paul Kelly – Fever Longing Still
- The Kid LAROI – How Does It Feel?
- Thelma Plum – I'm Sorry, Now Say It Back
- Young Franco – it's Franky baby!
Best Group
- Amyl and The Sniffers – Cartoon Darkness
- Folk Bitch Trio – Now Would Be A Good Time
- Hilltop Hoods – Fall From The Light
- Royel Otis – hickey
- RÜFÜS DU SOL – Inhale / Exhale
Who's Taking the Stage?
British sensation Olivia Dean headlines as the international act, but the local lineup is equally impressive. Expect electrifying performances from Alex Lahey, Baker Boy, G Flip, Missy Higgins, Thelma Plum, and more. And here's the twist: All five nominees for Best Soul/R&B Release will perform together with a 15-piece band, promising a showstopper featuring Boy Soda, Larissa Lambert, PANIA, Jerome Farah, and Jacotene.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 ARIA Awards promise a night of unforgettable music and moments. But we want to hear from you: Who do you think will take home the top prizes? Is Ninajirachi the future of Australian music, or will tradition reign supreme? Let us know in the comments—this is one conversation you won't want to miss!
