Australian music legend John Farnham was unable to attend a major tribute concert in his honour after his family revealed that his health had deteriorated in recent months.

The 77-year-old singer was due to be celebrated at The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend, held at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena, but remained at home with his family.

His family revealed that Farnham had required continuous oxygen support, was using a wheelchair and was receiving 24-hour nursing care at home.

They said they had kept his changing health needs private while the family adjusted to his circumstances, but felt fans should understand why he was unable to attend the tribute.

Their priority, they said, was keeping John safe and comfortable at home.

The update came after a more positive report in August, when Farnham’s sons had spoken publicly about their father’s recovery and said he was enjoying spending time with his family.

A celebration of an Australian music icon

The Melbourne tribute concert went ahead without Farnham and featured some of Australia’s best-known performers, including Jimmy Barnes, Tina Arena, Human Nature, Jessica Mauboy, Kate Ceberano and Ross Wilson.

Celine Dion also took part remotely.

The concert celebrated Farnham’s extraordinary career and raised money for Head and Neck Cancer Australia, reflecting the singer’s own battle with oral cancer.

Farnham remained one of the most celebrated figures in Australian music, with a career spanning more than five decades.

His 1986 album Whispering Jack remained one of the defining Australian albums of all time and had reached its 40th anniversary in 2026.

For generations of music fans, songs such as You’re the Voice, Pressure Down, Two Strong Hearts and Reasons had become part of the soundtrack of Australian life.

While John Farnham was not able to be there in person, the tribute concert served as another reminder of the extraordinary mark he had left on Australian music.

John Farnham — an Australian music legend whose voice continued to mean so much to millions of people.