INXS's 'Never Tear Us Apart' Crowned Australia's Best Song in Poll

In a landmark event for Australian music, the iconic track "Never Tear Us Apart" by INXS has been voted the best Australian song of all time in the inaugural Triple J Hottest 100 poll, which drew participation from more than 2.6 million voters. The poll, which aired on July 26, 2025, was open to any Australian release from history and aimed to celebrate the nation's most cherished homegrown hits.

According to Lachlan Macara, the head of Triple J, the overwhelming response to the poll reflects the deep appreciation Australians have for their local music. "This is the fourth-largest Hottest 100 we have ever conducted, with 2.65 million votes cast, which is more than any of the last four years," Macara stated. The result also highlights a cultural moment where nostalgia for Australian music reigns strong, especially among millennials and Generation X, who actively engaged in the voting process on social media platforms.

The win for INXS’s 1987 ballad, which features the poignant lyrics crafted by frontman Michael Hutchence, underscores the band's enduring legacy. The song not only topped the Australian charts but also achieved international acclaim, resonating with audiences in the US, UK, and Europe. INXS's track "Need You Tonight" also secured a spot in the poll, landing at No. 59.

Following INXS in the poll, the Hilltop Hoods claimed the second spot with their 2013 hit "The Nosebleed Section," a track that has achieved 10 times platinum sales in Australia. The top five was rounded out by the Veronicas’ "Untouched" in third, Missy Higgins’s "Scar" in fourth, and Crowded House’s "Don’t Dream It’s Over" in fifth. This diversity in genres—from rock to hip-hop—illustrates the rich tapestry of Australian music.

The poll's announcement also brings to light the ongoing challenges Australian artists face in an evolving music landscape. Macara cited the influence of social media and streaming platforms as critical in shaping how new music is discovered. "Artists express that it can be challenging to overcome algorithm-based barriers to reach audiences," he noted. This sentiment was echoed by Australian musician Ben Lee, who voiced concerns regarding the methodology of the Hottest 100 poll and suggested that it should focus solely on local songs each year.

The Hottest 100 of Australian Songs was conceived as a response to the results of the January Hottest 100, which had shown a concerning trend of fewer local acts represented. Macara expressed a commitment to fostering Australian talent, emphasizing the station's role in supporting and promoting local artists in the face of changing industry dynamics.

The top 10 list included notable mentions from previous decades, showcasing tracks from the 1970s through the 2000s, indicating a nostalgic yet progressive view of Australian music. The inclusion of artists like Cold Chisel with their hits "Flame Trees" and "Khe Sanh" alongside contemporary songs illustrates the breadth of Australia's musical heritage.

As the cultural conversation around Australian music continues, the significance of the Hottest 100 of Australian Songs cannot be overstated. It not only celebrates historical achievements but also serves as a catalyst for discussions about the future of Australian music, the importance of local representation, and the evolving landscape of music consumption in the digital age. The enthusiasm surrounding this poll may inspire a renewed focus on nurturing homegrown talent and ensuring that Australian music retains its rightful place on the global stage.