The Crown Returns: Entries Now Open for Cosplay Central Crown Championships @ PAX Aus 2025
By Drawza
Pack your hot glue gun, start stress-proofing your seams, and cue the anime soundtrack — Australia’s biggest cosplay competition is back.
Entries are now officially open for the Cosplay Central Crown Championships at PAX Aus 2025, taking over the Main Stage on Sunday, October 12 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. This isn't just a local showdown — the winner bags a ticket to represent Australia on the global stage at MCM London in May 2026, competing in front of the world’s best.
And yes, there’s a trophy. And flights. And hotel. And double passes to both MCM London and PAX Aus 2026. Basically: win here, and you're set for the cosplay year of your dreams.
Judging Royalty
This year’s panel is stacked with talent that knows what it takes to rise through the ranks:
Anaelic, originally from Scotland and a UK Crown finalist who took out third place at C2E2 2025, brings over 12 years of craftsmanship and tutorial-driven cosplay excellence — plus work with Riot Games and HoYoverse.
Henchwench, fresh off her 2025 World Championship win, returns home to the judging panel with two decades of costume experience and a whole lot of armour-building clout. If anyone knows how to take Aussie cosplay global, it's her.
Kayla Jean, whose fabric-first, pin-up-flavoured designs have built her a devoted following, rounds out the panel. Her short-form tutorials and playful approach make her a favourite among new-school cosplayers and fabric fiends alike.
What’s in Store @ PAX Aus 2025
PAX’s cosplay community will be thriving across all three days, with dedicated cosplay meet-ups, curated panels, and the beloved Cosplay Lounge making a return — including make-up stations, change rooms, and on-site repair tools for those inevitable con-floor costume malfunctions.
Whether you’re competing, cheering from the crowd, or just admiring the craftsmanship between game demos and panels, cosplay will once again be front and centre at PAX Aus.
Want In?
Applications for the 2025 Cosplay Central Crown Championships are open now and will close midday AEST, September 21. Full eligibility details and the application form are available via the official site.
TLDR:
Where? PAX Aus 2025 @ MCEC, Melbourne
When? October 10–12, with the Championships on Sunday, Oct 12
Why? A shot to represent Australia in London at MCM 2026
What’s the prize? Flights, hotels, badges, glory — and a trophy for the pool room
How to enter? Hit up the official site before September 21 at midday
For more info, badge sales, and cosplay updates, check out PAX Aus online or follow them on the usual socials.
