The music scene in Australia faces a wave of disappointment as two prominent American bands, The All-American Rejects and Knocked Loose, have both announced the cancellation of their performances due to unforeseen family emergencies.

Originally, these bands were set to electrify audiences at the Good Things shows scheduled from December 5 in Melbourne, followed by performances in Sydney and Brisbane on December 6 and 7, respectively.

In a heartfelt announcement shared via the Good Things website, The All-American Rejects expressed their sorrow: “We’re heartbroken to share that due to a sudden family loss, we won’t be able to make it to Australia as planned.” They emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “This has been an incredibly difficult moment for us, and as much as it devastates us to miss such a great opportunity to reconnect with our Australian fans, family has to come first.”

The band’s absence is particularly poignant, considering this was to be their first tour in Australia since 2009. They have reassured fans of their commitment to return as soon as possible.

Similarly, Knocked Loose issued an apology, stating their regret over the necessary cancellations. “We’re very sorry to everyone but we have to cancel our Australia trip, including the Good Things Festival and our headline shows around it,” they conveyed, highlighting the unavoidable nature of their decision.

Knocked Loose also provided a statement which read, “We’re very sorry to everyone but we have to cancel our Australia trip, including the Good Things Festival and our headline shows around it.

“Anyone familiar with this band knows we do not take cancelling shows lightly; but family will always come first.”

The hardcore band, which last played in Australia in 2023 at Knotfest music festival, is already planning to return.

Both bands were also scheduled to play additional headline side shows separate to the festival dates.

The All-American Rejects were supposed to perform in Melbourne, and Knocked Loose had headline shows planned for Sydney and Melbourne.

These shows have now been cancelled and ticketholders will be refunded.

Ticketing platforms have contacted ticketholders directly about the cancellations.

Good Things ticketholders will not be offered refunds.

The 11-date metalcore festival was supposed to kick off in February 2026 with Australian band Parkway Drive headlining.

It was cancelled yesterday due to “rising costs”.