Australian music has a long and rich history that dates back over 40,000 years. Australian music was exemplified with the invention of the didgeridoo about 1,500 years ago, and music on the continent evolved substantially after Western colonisation. Bush ballads began the heritage of post-colonial Australian music, and these were later joined by classical offerings derived from the rich traditions of Europe. In the 20th century, contemporary music from Australia has become popular on a global scale, culminating with the Australian pop explosion of the 1980s.

Australian Pop and Rock Music

Australian pop and rock music developed in three distinct waves. The first wave began in the 1950s when Festival Records in Sydney began releasing rock songs from Britain and America. Lee Gordon, an American promoter, also brought the most popular rock acts from the United States to tour in Australia. Some of these musicians included Bill Haley & His Comets, Little Richard and Buddy Holly & The Crickets. Influenced by these groups, several notable Australian rock groups sprang up at this time, such as The Denvermen, The Atlantics, The Thunderbirds and The Fabulous Blue Jays.

The second wave of Australian rock began in 1964, and it emerged directly from the impact that The Beatles had on the world music scene. Nearly every local rock group took cues from The Beatles, and many of them made a big impact on music in their own right. Some of the Australian bands from the second wave were The Bee Gees, Billy Thorpe & the Aztecs, The Twilights and The Groove.

Around 1970, the third wave of Australian rock rose. Most of the Australian rock groups of the 1960s had faded out by this time, and many others were hurt by the 1970 radio ban that limited their exposure. It was the third wave of rock that inspired some of the most unique rock talents in the world, which were made of both groups and solo performers. Some examples of worldwide sensations to come out of Australia in the 1970s include AC/DC, John Paul Young, Little River Band, Helen Reddy and Olivia Newton-John.

In the 1980s, Australian rock only grew stronger. Australian rock groups began to celebrate their heritage, such as Men at Work with their single Down Under. Down Under became a number one hit in Australia, the United States, the UK and across Europe. Other popular bands and musicians to come out of Australia in the 80s include the Hoodoo Gurus, Divinyls and Kylie Minogue.

From 1990, Australia has supported a strong rock scene, with many artists emerging out of the alternative and indie markets. An electronic and dance music scene also began at this time and continues today.