Some of the biggest names in music are coming together in Melbourne this September to celebrate the extraordinary legacy of Australian music icon John Farnham while helping raise funds for Head and Neck Cancer Australia.
The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend – The Celebration Concert will take place at Rod Laver Arena on Sunday 20 September 2026, bringing together an incredible line-up of artists for a one-night-only event honouring one of Australia’s most beloved performers.
More than 120 artists will take to the stage, including the John Farnham Band, a 38-piece orchestra and choir, performing some of Farnham’s most iconic songs.
The line-up includes Tina Arena, Jimmy Barnes, Mahalia Barnes, Kate Ceberano, Diesel, Hans, Human Nature, Jack Jones, Richard Marx, Jessica Mauboy, Ruby Rodgers, Jon Stevens, Mitch Tambo, Keith Urban, Mark Vincent and Ross Wilson, with more artists still to be announced.
International stars Celine Dion and Hugh Jackman will also be part of the celebration, performing via satellite from Paris and Los Angeles respectively.
The concert has been personally curated by John Farnham, who invited each artist to take part in the event. It will celebrate a catalogue of music that has become part of Australian culture, including classics such as You’re The Voice, Burn For You, Age of Reason, A Touch of Paradise, Two Strong Hearts and Pressure Down.
Adding to the significance of the evening, longtime musical director Chong Lim will lead the John Farnham Band alongside the orchestra and choir, delivering a powerful tribute to Farnham’s remarkable career.
The event will also support an important cause, with funds raised helping Head and Neck Cancer Australia continue its work supporting Australians affected by head and neck cancer and raising awareness about early diagnosis and treatment.
In a statement, John Farnham said he hopes people simply enjoy the music and have a great night while supporting a cause that means a great deal to him.
The venue itself holds special significance. Rod Laver Arena has become synonymous with Farnham’s career, with the legendary performer having played an incredible 94 shows at the venue to more than one million fans.
It’s expected to be one of Melbourne’s biggest live music events of 2026 and a rare opportunity to see some of Australia’s most celebrated performers come together to honour a true Australian legend.
📅 Date: Sunday 20 September 2026
📍 Venue: Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
🎟️ Tickets: On sale from 10am Tuesday 2 June via Ticketek or Register Now for updates.
Supporting: Head and Neck Cancer Australia
Please note: This is a tribute concert celebrating the music and legacy of John Farnham. John Farnham will not be performing.
With more artists still to be announced, this promises to be an unforgettable night celebrating the songs, stories and impact of one of Australia’s greatest entertainers.
Melbourne with Kidz (MWK) 
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