AC/DC made a thunderous return to their home soil as they launched their first Australian tour in ten years on Thursday, November 12. With over 80,000 fans packing the legendary Melbourne Cricket Ground, the rock icons delivered a powerful 21-song set that celebrated their classic sound while also surprising the crowd with a long-awaited moment many thought they would never witness again.
Although AC/DC has performed massive shows around the world for decades, this tour marks an important homecoming. Because the group has not toured Australia since 2015, the anticipation surrounding this run has been high. Fortunately for fans, the band did not disappoint, and the opening night already feels historic for several reasons.
A Stunning Return After a Decade Away
From the moment the lights dropped inside the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the energy in the stadium erupted. Fans from across Australia traveled to the show, many of them seeing AC/DC live for the first time in years. Others brought their families, hoping to introduce younger generations to a band that helped define rock music.
Even before the setlist surprises, the excitement of seeing AC/DC back in Australia was enough to carry the night. However, around the middle of the performance, the band delivered one of the most unforgettable highlights of the entire tour.
“Jailbreak” Returns to the Stage After 34 Years
One of the evening’s biggest shocks came when AC/DC performed “Jailbreak” for the first time in more than 34 years. The song, originally recorded in 1976 during the BON SCOTT era, has long been considered a fan favorite. However, despite its popularity, the band has avoided playing it live for decades.
When the unmistakable opening riff kicked in, fans immediately recognized that something special was happening. The moment became even more meaningful because “Jailbreak” holds a significant place in AC/DC’s early history. In Australia, the track appeared on the local version of “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap.” Yet it was not officially released in North America until 1984, making it a deep cut for many international listeners.
Although the performance was not part of any interview, fan-filmed footage captured the energy and excitement surrounding the rare song. The clip, which quickly spread online, reflects just how important this moment was for long-time followers of the band.
A Look Back at “Jailbreak” and Its Legacy
“Jailbreak” was written by ANGUS YOUNG, MALCOLM YOUNG, and BON SCOTT, three members who shaped the foundation of AC/DC’s identity. The track tells the story of a man wrongfully imprisoned, with lyrics that echo the rebellious spirit that helped the band build its global fan base.
Because the song remained absent from live shows for more than three decades, many fans assumed it would never return. Yet the 2025 Australian tour has already proven unpredictable, in the best way possible. The comeback of “Jailbreak” also offers a meaningful nod to BON SCOTT, whose legacy remains central to AC/DC’s history and influence.
