After a spectacular year of live music in 2025 featuring the likes of Katy Perry, Billie Eilish, and AC/DC, fans across Australia and New Zealand are already looking ahead to an equally packed schedule for 2026. A slew of global superstars and iconic bands have announced major tours, promising another unforgettable year for concert-goers.
Rock Royalty and Solo Superstars
In a move that shocked and delighted fans, Foo Fighters revealed plans for a special one-night-only performance in Launceston, Tasmania. The rock giants, fronted by Dave Grohl, will take over the UTAS Stadium on January 24, 2026. This marks their first visit to the island state in over a decade, having last played Hobart in 2015.
Despite the excitement, the single-show announcement left many mainland Australian fans pleading for a full national tour. Social media was flooded with comments from hopeful supporters in Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne asking for more dates.
Meanwhile, New Zealand's Lorde will make a triumphant return with her Ultrasound World Tour. Kicking off in Auckland on February 11, 2026, the tour will weave through Christchurch before hitting major Australian arenas. The run includes dates in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth throughout late February.
Global Icons Make Their Debut and Return
2026 will also see a highly anticipated debut, as Puerto Rican megastar Bad Bunny brings his 'Debí Tirar Más Fotos' world tour to Australia for the very first time. The reggaeton hitmaker will perform two all-ages shows at Sydney's ENGIE Stadium on February 28 and March 1. The tour follows closely on the heels of his scheduled performance at the 2026 NFL Super Bowl halftime show, a booking that previously sparked significant controversy.
Not to be outdone, Ed Sheeran is set for another colossal stadium run after his record-breaking 2023 tour. Beginning in Perth at Optus Stadium on January 31, 2026, Sheeran's tour will visit Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Adelaide through February and early March. His previous Mathematics tour sold over a million tickets, setting high expectations for this return.
Fan Favourites and Iconic Reunions
The lineup for 2026 also features a mix of pop power and nostalgic reunions. Kesha announced her 'Tits Out Tour' for February, visiting Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Perth. The initial omission of Sydney from the schedule caused a stir among fans, though she is now confirmed to headline the inaugural Mighty Hoopla Festival in the city on February 26.
Pop-punk veterans Good Charlotte are also heading Down Under, with a tour that includes a notable stop at the Bendigo Showgrounds in regional Victoria on February 21. This show is reported to be part of a state government initiative to boost live music outside major metro areas.
In a major treat for classic rock fans, legendary New Zealand band Split Enz will reunite for their first shows in 17 years. After a warm-up in Christchurch, they will headline Bluesfest in Byron Bay in April before embarking on a four-date national arena tour in May, celebrating the 50th anniversary of their debut album 'Mental Notes'.
With such a diverse and star-studded roster already confirmed, 2026 is shaping up to be another phenomenal year for live music in Australasia, ensuring fans' calendars will be full and their savings accounts lightly depleted.
