The 2025 ARIA Awards, held at Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion, kicked off with a bang as Melbourne’s punk rock band Amyl and the Sniffers quickly dominated the evening. Within the first 50 minutes, the band secured two awards, setting the stage for a night of triumph.
Amyl and the Sniffers, who arrived with six nominations, celebrated victories in Best Group, Best Cover Art, and Best Rock Album for their latest release, Cartoon Darkness. The band’s energetic presence is currently amplified as they support AC/DC on a national tour, and their Grammy nomination further underscores their growing international acclaim.
Lead singer Amy Taylor, known for her charismatic stage presence, quipped during her acceptance speech for Best Cover Art,
“I know you just like it because I was flashing my titties,”
adding a touch of humor to the proceedings. The award was accepted on behalf of artists John Stewart and Thomas Rennie, who crafted the album’s cheeky cover.
The Night’s Electrifying Performances
The ARIA Awards are renowned for their live performances, and this year was no exception. Keli Holiday opened the ceremony with a vibrant rendition of Dancing2, captivating the audience with his signature sway. The performance was elevated by a surprise appearance from Baker Boy, who played the yidaki, or didgeridoo, and G Flip, who impressed with a saxophone solo.
Keli Holiday later clinched the Best Video award for the same song, inspired by his relationship with Abbie Chatfield. His heartfelt acknowledgment of his muse resonated with the audience, adding a personal touch to the celebration.
Record Nominations and Notable Wins
Ninajirachi, a self-taught artist, led the nominations with an impressive eight nods, followed closely by Dom Dolla with seven. Dom Dolla’s achievements were highlighted by receiving the inaugural Global Impact Award, presented by Spotify, recognizing his influence in the global music scene. In his acceptance speech, he encouraged artists to enjoy their journey, stating,
“Don’t worry about the destination, you just gotta really enjoy it, and you might be really surprised where you end up.”
Meanwhile, Taylor Swift continued her reign as the Most Popular International Artist, marking her fifth win in this category. This accolade underscores her enduring popularity and influence in the Australian music market.
Comprehensive List of Winners and Nominees
The ARIA Awards celebrate a diverse range of musical talents across various genres. Here is a selection of winners and nominees from the night:
Best Australian Live Act
- WINNER: Troye Sivan – Something To Give Each Other Tour
- Amyl and The Sniffers – Cartoon Darkness World Tour
- Ball Park Music – Like Love Tour
- BARKAA – BIG TIDDA TOUR
- Confidence Man – 3AM (LA LA LA) Tour
Best Rock Album
- WINNER: Amyl and The Sniffers – Cartoon Darkness
- Ball Park Music – Like Love
- King Stingray – For the Dreams
Best Soul/R&B Release
- WINNER: BOY SODA – Lil Obsession
- JACOTÉNE – Why’d You Do That?
Michael Gudinski Breakthrough Artist
- WINNER: Ninajirachi – I Love My Computer
- Folk Bitch Trio – Now Would Be a Good Time
These awards highlight the rich tapestry of talent within the Australian music industry, celebrating both established artists and emerging voices.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Australian Music
The 2025 ARIA Awards not only celebrated current achievements but also set the stage for the future of Australian music. With artists like Amyl and the Sniffers and Ninajirachi pushing creative boundaries, the industry is poised for continued innovation and global recognition.
As the night concluded, the anticipation for next year’s awards began to build, with many artists already planning their next moves. The ARIA Awards continue to be a vital platform for showcasing the best of Australian music, and the 2025 ceremony has undoubtedly left a lasting impression.
