The Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) is overhauling how it honors the legends who conquered both the Outback and the Billboard charts. ARIA has confirmed that its Hall of Fame, home to global icons like AC/DC, INXS, Kylie Minogue, and The Bee Gees, will now become a standalone ceremony, separate from the main ARIA Awards.
The shift comes as part of a broader plan to give legacy artists more focused recognition. For years, Hall of Fame inductions were folded into the fast-paced annual awards broadcast. By moving to a dedicated stage on June 11, 2026, ARIA is creating space for the kind of deep tributes and long-form performances that careers of this magnitude deserve.
Here’s the thing. This isn’t just about local history. Many of these inductees are staples of American rock and pop radio, having defined generations of music culture across the Pacific. Giving the Hall of Fame its own spotlight allows for true reflection on how these artists built a bridge between the Australian scene and the global stage.
What this really means is a strategic shift in emphasis. While the annual ARIA Awards will continue to spotlight modern hitmakers like The Kid LAROI and Troye Sivan, the new June event will focus entirely on the architects of the sound.
ARIA has not yet revealed the full 2026 induction class, but the move signals a renewed commitment to the artists who made Australian music a worldwide brand.
