While the much-loved American rockers start their Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace tour just days before the big MTV night on April 26, they have scored a nomination along with Justin Timberlake, Lupe Fiasco, Pink and Juliette And The Licks.

The latter act, fronted by actress Juliette Lewis were confirmed to perform at the new-look MTV event last weekend, which sets up a nice tug of war with her mate Dave Grohl for the live gig gong.

In recent years, those acts who were in Australia when the awards were held tended to win.

Foo Fighters are also up for Music Video Of The Year against Delta Goodrem, Mika, Fergie and 50 Cent.

MTV Networks managing director Dave Sibley said while Foo fans will only have a few days to check out the band before voting closes on April 25, he felt it was "essential" to include them in the category because of their live reputation and popularity.

"We accept that Foo Fighters fans won't have much time to register their vote once the tour lands in Australia, but denying them this opportunity wasn't an option," he said.

It is highly unlikely former Immigration Minister Kevin Andrews will be walking the red carpet to pick up his Bad Karma Award.

Andrews was nominated for refusing Snoop Dogg entry to Australia to attend last year's awards after failing a character test. He was also nominated for "defining bad hair day".