Today we’re chatting with Chloe Hardy from Queensland, one of 30 remarkable women vying for the Miss Universe Australia 2025 crown, to be decided on August 15 at Crown Perth’s Grand Ballroom.
So, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
I was born and raised on the beautiful Gold Coast, where I began exploring my entrepreneurial spirit by starting work at just 13 years old. My love for earning and saving led me to buy my first property at 18, a significant milestone for me that I am incredibly proud of. One of my greatest achievements is launching Dupes & Co, an online business that combines my passion for modelling, fashion, and beauty while providing accessible cosmetic options during the rising cost of living crisis. In addition to my business, I enjoy working as a model, travelling and working on my fitness. I also love spending time with my six gorgeous doggies, yes six haha!
As part of the program, you had the amazing opportunity to travel to Vietnam, and stay at the beautiful Hoiana Resort. How was that experience for you?
This experience was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me. The Hoiana Resort and Golf is, without a doubt, the most incredible hotel I have ever stayed at, especially considering I’ve visited 18 countries! From walking classes with Thelma to fabulous pool parties, delicious dinners, and so much more, we were truly spoilt throughout our stay. Spending a week in a foreign country alongside 30 of the most inspiring young women in Australia was unforgettable and I am already counting down the days until we can reunite.
What would you say was the highlight of the trip?
While it’s difficult to choose just one highlight, our runway walking classes with Thelma are by far a standout memory for me. I can’t even begin to describe the energy that we all felt in that room. The sheer support and uplifting from all the girls and the guidance that Thelma gives, it’s genuinely an experience I will never forget. We all learnt so much and grew closer sharing such a vulnerable moment.
As part of the trip, you also took part in your official swimwear shoot with Unnecessary the Label. How was that experience for you?
My swim shoot is another strong standout memory for me. I was a part of the theme ‘beached’ which is perfect for me considering I am a Gold Coast girl! Collaborating with some of the most talented creative minds in Australia such as Alarna, the director of makeup for MUA, and our incredible photographer and videographer, Jarred Sang and Matthew Knight, made the experience even more special. We were lucky enough to be styled in swimwear pieces from Unnecessary the Label and decked out in stunning jewellery from Stelios Jewellers, which made me feel like absolute royalty. I cannot wait to see all our final swim shots.
Your next question comes from our current Miss Universe Australia, Zoe Creed. If your younger self could see you today, not just on this stage but as a person, what do you think she’d be most proud of and why?
My younger self would be proud that I’ve always stayed true to who I am. Growing up, I was known as the most confident girl in the room, always backing myself no matter what. Despite the many times I was told my dreams were too unrealistic, I remained committed to my goals and worked tirelessly to reach them. Today, I’m a business and property owner and now a national finalist for Miss Universe Australia 2025. I know she would be incredibly proud of my journey, and that feeling is one of the greatest in the world.
With everyone bringing their own unique flair to the program, what would you say sets you apart from the other contestants?
I think that each and every girl in this group is truly amazing and they inspire me in their own unique ways, but I would say what sets me apart is my deep understanding of the value of hard work. I landed my first job at just 13 years old, and since then, I’ve made countless sacrifices to pursue my goals. I firmly believe that success doesn’t come easy; to achieve it, you must work ten times harder than those around you. Today, at 21 years old, I am proud to be both a property and business owner and I can confidently say that my accomplishments are the result of dedication and relentless effort, not something that just happened overnight.
What’s something about you that people might find surprising or interesting?
One interesting fact about me is my love for baking. Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamt of having my own baking show, and that love for the craft has stayed with me over the years. Baking is my escape from reality, allowing me to unwind and express my creativity in the kitchen. I enjoy testing new recipes and experimenting with flavours, but of course, my favourite part is always tasting the final product. So, whether you’re in the mood for pavlova, cupcakes, or éclairs, I’m your girl!
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
I feel incredibly fortunate to already be working on my dream project, Dupes & Co. It aligns so perfectly with my personal interests and expertise. Recently, we were featured on Channel 7 News, which was a huge milestone for us. Amid Australia’s ongoing cost of living crisis, I find it heartwarming to contribute to making affordable cosmetics accessible to my fellow Aussies. While it would be great to have unlimited time and resources for this venture, my love for this brand and everything it represents drives me every day.
We have a few quick questions to wrap up the interview:
What’s a song that never fails to lift your mood?
If I am ever feeling down, I play ‘Shoot Down’ by Maoli, Fiji and Jamey Ferguson. There is something about it that instantly lifts my mood, and it is so much fun to sing!
What does confidence mean to you?
Confidence isn’t something that develops overnight. For me, it was built through embracing every opportunity that came my way, even those that terrified me. I believe that the more you say yes, the more comfortable you become with putting yourself out there for the world to see. This willingness to step outside my comfort zone has allowed my confidence to carry me through various aspects of my life, enabling me to grow as a person exponentially.
If you had to swap lives with someone for a day, who would it be and why?
If I could swap lives with someone for a day, it would be Kylie Jenner. I am so fascinated by the empire she has built and with all her many business ventures. I would love to gain insight into how she manages her various projects and maintains a strong connection with her audience. Experiencing her daily routine, from meetings to creative product launches, would be incredibly valuable to me to say the least.
What’s one thing you always have in your handbag (besides your phone)?
You will never find me without a lip balm! One of my biggest pet peeves is having dry lips and I assure you whenever you look my way, my lippies will be nice and hydrated haha!
Window or aisle seat on a flight?
I am without a doubt a window girl. I love being able to look out and see the view and I always need control of the window shade!
Help Chloe and the Miss Universe Australia Finalists Make a Difference.
Chloe, along with the other Miss Universe Australia Finalists, have collectively raised over $500,000 to support ToyBox and its official 2025 charities Camp Quality, Ocean Heroes and Ronald McDonald House. You can donate now using the link below.
