Austria, the country that will be returning to the Eurovision Song Contest next year in Germany, has kicked off preparations for the selection of their representative. An early stage of the procedure has just begun through the radiostation Ö3. Everyone can nominate whatever person or group they wish. Candidates just need to gather the support of 33 followers in order to stay in the competition.

Nominees can support themselves, thus they would only need 32 more people pushing their bid. All those wishing to nominate someone can do so by phoning 0800 600 600 or sending an e-mail to [email protected] .

Austria will hold a national final in February. Between 5 and 10 contestants are expected to fight for the ticket to Düsseldorf. The show would be divided in two parts: the first one, intended to present the songs in competition, and the second one featuring the hopefuls and guests singing Eurovision classics. Regarding the voting procedure, two options are being discussed: a) 50/50 jury and televoting; and b) a three-way method adding the opinions of a panel of former Eurovision entrants to the verdict of public and jury.

Ö3 radio have stated that "the goal of the Austrian participation in Eurovision is not necessarily a good position or to achieve profits -which would be very nice of course- but just have fun. We want to share this feeling with viewers across Europe for at least three minutes. If they also have fun, we have already won".