PRESS RELEASE
PAX Aus will once again host the Cosplay Central Crown Championship in 2026, marking its fifth year as one of the most anticipated cosplay competitions in the region. Celebrating the incredible craftsmanship, creativity and performance of Australia’s cosplay community, the competition once again offers local talent the opportunity to showcase their work on an international stage.
The 2026 championship will award one overall winner and one runner-up. The winner will go on to represent Australia at the Cosplay Central Crown Championship Global Final at MCM London Comic Con in 2027 (dates to be announced).
This year’s competition will be judged by an internationally renowned panel of cosplay and creative industry experts. Joining the panel is Cinderys, a Paris-based professional cosplayer and concept/3D artist known for her award-winning work and collaborations with major studios including Blizzard,
Capcom and Bungie.
She is joined by Soylent Cosplay, a Sydney-based professional cosplayer and special FX makeup artist celebrated for her transformative character work and collaborations with leading gaming companies such as BioWare, Blizzard ANZ and PlayStation ANZ.
Completing the panel is Spicythaidesign, a globally recognised cosplayer and costumer at Wētā Workshop in New Zealand whose credits include major film productions such as Thor: Ragnarok, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and Avatar: The Way of Water.
Back on hosting duties is The Gem Cosplay. A Melbourne-based professional cosplayer, esports caster, panelist and content creator, Gem is known for their inventive wigs and makeup, as well as their strong characterisation and dynamic posing. Having been part of the cosplay community since 2009, they bring years of experience, community knowledge and a deep love for the craft. As host, Gem will help competitors feel at ease while showcasing their work and guiding the audience through the artistry on display, acting as a bridge between creators and the audience.
In addition to the championship, PAX Aus is excited to introduce Cosplay Land, a brand-new dedicated space designed to support and celebrate the cosplay community. Located on the mezzanine level near the Clarendon Street entrance of MCEC and accessible via both stairs and lift, Cosplay Land will serve
as a central hub for cosplayers of all levels. Cosplay Land will feature a dedicated theatre hosting panels, alongside practical amenities such as a repair station and change rooms to support cosplayers throughout the event. The space will also showcase a media wall with Australian cosplay photographers and a walk-up community media wall.
Attendees can take part in hands-on workshops presented by Lumin’s Workshop, relax in a lounge area with seating and connect with fellow cosplay fans through dedicated community meet-ups and trading opportunities.
The Lumin’s Workshop team said, “We’re excited to bring back our workshops to PAX Aus and welcome talented French cosplayer, Cinderys, to Australia.”
Further details on Cosplay Land programming and Cosplay Central Crown Championship entry information will be announced in the lead-up to PAX Aus 2026.