Meet every Australian Idol contestant who has sang their way to the Top 12

John might be only 17, but he has a passion for jukebox classics.

His performance of James Brown’s I Got You (I Feel Good) had the crowd on their feet and received a standing ovation from the judges.

“Being in the Top 12 means I have another opportunity to perform, to grow, to be stretched. And to show Australia what I have to offer,” he said.

Fortlift driver Jacinta has been blowing the judges away from the moment she auditioned to be on the show.

“I feel shocked,” she said about making it to the Top 12, exceeding her own expectations.

“I also feel so much pride and relief, knowing that all my hard work is finally paying off. It means the world to me.

“It means I am just one step closer to my dreams, that is such a blessing in itself.”

From the moment he auditioned, the judges were blown away by Charlie.

Famously, he dedicated his Birds of a Feather audition to his mother, who he cared for before she passed from brain cancer.

Since then, he has gone from strength to strength.

After performing With a Little Help from My Friends, he was granted a fast pass into the Top 12.

“I just want to bring everything – real vocals, real feelings,” he shared.

“I’ve been doing this for years, in small rooms, at jams, working on my voice and craft.

“So, when I step onto the Australian Idol stage, it’s not just a performance, it’s everything I’ve built up.”

Despite her lack of experience with in-ear monitors, all of the judges said Kesha “crushed” her rendition of Hozier’s hit Take Me to Church in front of a live audience.

For the skier, who performed in Jindabyne Idol growing up, making it through to the Top 12 was a dream come true.

“I am so grateful that the judges had faith in me, and I can continue to progress on the show,” she said.

“I have been doing music my whole life and I would absolutely love to be able to make a career out of it so I can keep sharing my love of music with other people.”

Since the start of the competition, the judges have fallen in love with the Adelaide teacher and mother’s warmth and vocals.

Simela secured her spot in the competition after singing Still Breathing by Sia.

“I’m in disbelief, but at the same time, I’ve earned this spot. I’m meant to be here,” she gushed.

“It’s dream-changing, life-shaking stuff, and I’m laying it all on the line in Top 12 and beyond.”

Lily-Grace left school in Year 10 to pursue music and has already performed at a variety of music festivals.

She secured her spot in the Top 12 with her country spin on (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction by The Rolling Stones.

“Being in the Top 12 means everything to me,” she said.

“I’m so happy the judges have faith in me. Can’t wait for the next shows.”

The landscaper impressed the judges with his new look and his rendition of Wherever You Will Go by The Calling.

Grateful to make it through to the Top 12, he said he was ready for the live shows.

“I want to share love and connection,” he said. “I feel like I have a lot to give on Australian Idol, not only vocally but personally.”

Kyle gave Harlan a Fast Pass to the Top 12 after he performed Diann Ross’ hit Chain Reaction.

“Getting the Fast Pass made me feel like all the hard work and preparation had truly paid off,” he said, reflecting on the experience.

“Most importantly, I felt so much love from my family and my mentors who came to support me.

“That made me incredibly proud, not just of myself, but of where I come from and who I represent. Making the Top 12 reinforces that the work I’m putting in matters.”

Barber Harry is determined to chase his musical dream.

“Being part of the Top 12 feels like such a huge recognition for all the effort I’ve put into my music and style,” he explained.

With the live performances around the corner, he said he’s ready to prove himself.

“I know I have more to give vocally, and I feel like I’m finally coming out of my shell with the performance,” he shared.

“I think Australia should vote for me because I have such a love for music and I work incredibly hard in all things, but especially in music.”

Devoted husband and father of two, Trè made it to the Top 12 with his “best performance yet” of the 90s Boyz II Men classic I’ll Make Love to You.

“You can’t teach what you have. You have ultimate charisma,” Amy said.

Making it through means everything to him.

“It’s been an amazing experience so far, and I’ve already learned so much.”

Kyle praised Sophie Poidevin’s stage work and vocals on Bette Davis Eyes, which secured her place in the Top 12.

“I would play that version on the radio,” he gushed. “I can see it playing at a festival. You’ve got the whole package.”

She said she was thankful to make it through to the live performances.

“Australian Idol has allowed me so many opportunities to really put on a show and perform, which has always been my favourite
part,” she shared.

This jazz and soul-singing waitress wowed the judges with Rihanna’s Only Girl in the World, which earned her a spot in the Top 12.

“This shows me I can be a testament to little girls and boys out there who have a dream or a talent that there is a place on the big stage for us,” she said.

“This means it’s not just about me; it’s about everyone I represent.”