Australian rising star Austin Mackay has officially been added to the support lineup for Max McNown’s North American Forever Ain’t Long Enough Tour. The news lands as a victorious comeback for Mackay, who earlier this year faced visa issues that prevented him from attending CMA Fest in Tennessee.

In June, Mackay opened up about that ordeal, being turned away at immigration due to visa complications, despite having momentum from his national exposure and sold-out tours with McNown back home. The visa mix-up was a gut punch for Mackay, who had been looking forward to making a splash at one of country music’s biggest gatherings.

Now, the tables have turned. Mackay has snagged a coveted spot opening up for McNown during his North American headline run which has just kicked off. It’s a full-circle moment and a reminder that when life throws curveballs, perseverance and raw talent can still pull you through.

When we spoke with McNown earlier this year he told us “I’m very choosy with openers,” further adding that “Austin stood out because he’s just a genuinely good dude. We had coffee in Auckland before the first show and ended up talking for three hours straight, no small talk, just real conversations. That’s my kind of person.”

Mackay is fast becoming one of Australia's most compelling emerging voices in folk and country music. Known for his raw songwriting and emotionally rich sound, Mackay blends introspective lyrics with layered acoustic and electric textures. His recent releases, including Time to Learn, All My Friends, and The Wheel, have earned him a streaming momentum, showcasing his ability to balance vulnerability with grit. 

On the road, Mackay has also built a strong reputation as a magnetic live performer. He’s supported some of the country’s biggest names including Brad Cox, The Dreggs and Morgan Evans, while also headlining his own sold-out shows across Australia and New Zealand. Festival appearances at Bluesfest, BIGSOUND, and Howlin’ Country have further cemented his status as one to watch.

Mackay’s inclusion is not only a win for him but a statement that the genre’s future is global, and even unexpected setbacks won’t keep real talent grounded for long.