The song was released on 28 October 2021 as the lead single from the band's thirteenth studio album Resist.

[7][8] Sosefina Fuamoli from Music Feeds said the song is "as pointed as you'd expect" saying "the focus of 'Rising Seas' sits squarely on creating real change; as well as Australia's lack of action when it comes to achieving a number of targets, particularly to do with carbon emission.

A song like 'Rising Seas' is made to incite and encourage positive change, as much as it about calling out the incompetencies and failings of those in power.

"[7] Tyler Jenke from Rolling Stone Australia said "'Rising Seas' is Midnight Oil at their powerful, resonant best.

"[8] Nathan Jolly from The Guardian said "The band delivers its grim message with the same raw power of its best anthems.