Revellers are gathering across Australia for New Year’s Eve celebrations, with some in Sydney queuing for three days to gain the best vantage point for harbourside fireworks.
Celebrations are kicking off around the country ahead of spectacular fireworks shows tonight.
For those staying in, you can also follow the ABC’s exclusive broadcast of the Sydney Harbour fireworks on ABC TV and iview from 8.30pm (AEDT).
Thousands of people are lining up for harbourside vantage points in Sydney.
At Mrs Macquaries Point, the earliest group arrived three days ago to claim the best chance at a great viewing spot.
One member of the group, who travelled from Melbourne, said it was worth the trip.
“It’s a cold day. Yeah it’s hard, but it’s very exciting,” they said.
Another group from Melbourne said they came to Sydney especially for the fireworks.
“We heard they are some of the best in the world so we went all the way here just for the fireworks,” they said.
Others have come from all over the world, including Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands and China.
Friends who used to study together have reunited in Sydney to queue at 3am after travelling from Germany and the Netherlands.
They said they were “a little excited, very tired” but “pretty hyped”.
“It’s just a nice environment to be in, everyone’s very happy,” one said.
Rain hasn’t dampened the mood, but many who waited overnight have set up tents and tarpaulins to stay dry.
The gates were opened an hour early, with those who had waited sprinting in to gain a premium spot on the harbour.
City of Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said about a million people were expected to see the fireworks from around the foreshore, with about 425 million watching around the world.
“They eyes of the world will be watching Sydney as we optimistically bring in the new year with our iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks,” Ms Moore said.