Today we’re chatting with Audrey Panagopoulos from Victoria, one of 28 remarkable women vying for the Miss Universe Australia 2026 crown, to be decided on August 26 at Palladium, Crown Melbourne. In a first for the pageant, this year’s national final will be broadcast live nationally on the Seven Network.
So Audrey, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
I’m a 24-year-old from Melbourne with a passion for business, personal growth, and making a positive impact. I work in business development and strategy within the plumbing industry, where I love challenging stereotypes and driving innovation in a traditionally male-dominated field.
I’m someone who enjoys stepping outside my comfort zone, which is what led me to Miss Universe Australia. This journey has given me the opportunity to grow in confidence, support meaningful causes like ToyBox Australia, and connect with incredible people along the way.
What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?
Entering Miss Universe Australia was something that had been on my mind for a long time, but I kept putting it off. I actually submitted my application on the very last day, and I’m so grateful I did. The experience has exceeded every expectation I had. It’s challenged me, helped me grow in confidence, and introduced me to incredible people.
As part of the program, you had the amazing opportunity to travel to Vietnam and stay at the beautiful Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh. How was that experience for you?
It was such an incredible experience. The trip was busy from start to finish, but every moment was so much fun. Staying at Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh was definitely a highlight. The service was exceptional, and the setting was absolutely stunning.
What’s one moment from the trip you don’t think you’ll ever forget?
One moment I’ll never forget was the Bromley & Co portrait shoot. It was such a special experience working with David and Yuge, whose passion and creativity made everyone feel so comfortable in front of the camera. Watching their vision come to life was incredibly inspiring, and I’m beyond excited to see the final artwork. I’ll treasure it forever, not only as a beautiful piece of art, but as a lasting reminder of such a special experience and the memories made throughout the journey.
As part of the trip, you also took part in your official swimwear shoot with Unnecessary. What was the experience like?
The official Unnecessary swimwear shoot was such a surreal experience. Filming on the beach at sunset, with the sky changing colours and the ocean as the backdrop, made it feel incredibly special. Working alongside such a talented crew created such a fun and supportive atmosphere, and it was one of those moments where I stopped and thought, “I can’t believe this is real.” It’s a memory I’ll always look back on with a smile.
Your next question comes from our current Miss Universe Australia, Lexie Brant. What is one belief or perspective that you’ve changed your mind about recently, and what caused that change?
One perspective I’ve really changed recently is that every opportunity needs to have a clear outcome before it’s worth pursuing. Entering Miss Universe Australia taught me that some of the most rewarding experiences come simply from saying yes. I applied on the very last day without knowing what to expect, and it’s exceeded every expectation I had.
With everyone bringing their own unique flair to the program, what would you say sets you apart from the other finalists?
I think what sets me apart is the combination of creativity and business. I love thinking strategically, solving problems, and bringing ideas to life, but I also have a creative side that enjoys storytelling and connecting with people. It’s not a combination you often see, and I think those two parts of my personality balance each other really well.
What’s one skill, trip, or activity, not Miss Universe related, that you want to tick off your list before the end of 2026?
I’d love to go skiing for the first time before the end of the year, but if I had to choose, I’d definitely want to try snowboarding. I’ve always loved surfing, so I feel like I’d really enjoy the challenge of being on a board in the snow. It’s something that’s been on my bucket list for a while.
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
I’d love to design and build my dream home from the ground up. I love architecture and interior design, and having the opportunity to create every detail exactly as I imagined would be an incredible project.
If 2026 had a theme song, what would it be?
“Summer of ’69” by Bryan Adams.
It might be a throwback, but it perfectly captures how 2026 has felt for me. It’s been one of those monumental years that I know I’ll look back on for the rest of my life, and that’s exactly what this song reminds me of. It feels like I’m living through the moments that will one day become some of my favourite memories. Everything has happened so quickly, it’s been so much fun, and I know one day I’ll look back and think, “Wow, that really was such a special year.”
What’s the most “you” thing currently sitting in your camera roll?
Without a doubt, it’s photos of my dog, Lucy. I probably have at least one photo of her from every single day! She’s been by my side since I was nine years old, so she’s been there through every stage of my life and my camera roll is definitely proof of that.
Best piece of advice you’ever ignored?
“Wait until you’re ready.”
I’ve learnt that you rarely ever feel 100% ready for the biggest opportunities. Sometimes you just have to take the leap and trust yourself.
What’s a completely useless or funny talent you have that you’re weirdly proud of?
I have an uncanny ability to remember the most random details about people and conversations. It’s not exactly a useful talent, but it definitely surprises people when I bring something up years later!
Where to Watch, Audrey on the Miss Universe Australia National Final
The Miss Universe Australia National Final is being broadcast live on Seven Network on August 26, 2026. The live red-carpet coverage will begin at 7:00pm AEST, followed by the National Final at 7:30pm AEST on 7plus. The program then airs on Channel Seven following The Front Bar.
