Today we’re chatting with Sienna Van West 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 Sienna, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
I’m 20 years old from Melbourne. I am at university studying a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) in my 3rd year, with the aspiration of becoming a children’s clinical psychologist. During the week I work in administration at an allied health clinic and on weekends I am a makeup artist, so definitely keeping myself busy!
What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?
I grew up watching Miss Universe Australia and always believed that one day I’d enter the program. Somewhere during high school, though, I lost my confidence and that dream slowly faded. A couple of years after finishing school, I’d worked hard to rediscover my spark, sense of purpose, and confidence, so I decided to take the leap. I was excited by the challenge and the opportunity to meet like-minded women from across the country. Little did I know at the time, it would become one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!
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. I’d never been to Vietnam before, but it had always been on my bucket list, and it definitely lived up to the hype. The weather was amazing, the water was so warm, the beaches were so clean, and the scenery honestly didn’t even look real. Staying at Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh made it even better—the staff were so kind and welcoming, and every detail of the resort was beautiful. I’ll definitely be returning to Vietnam, hopefully at the end of the year!
What’s one moment from the trip you don’t think you’ll ever forget?
Our final walking class with Thelma is a moment I’ll never forget. It was so empowering seeing all of the national finalists and the PTE team come together to support, encourage and hype each other up. With the music blasting and everyone strutting the runway, the energy was incredible and it made me so excited for finals. It really felt like one big family, and a few of us even ended up in tears, just feeling so overwhelmed with gratitude for the experience and everything we’d shared together.
As part of the trip, you also took part in your official swimwear shoot with Unnecessary. What was the experience like?
It was absolutely incredible! Before Miss Universe Australia I hadn’t done much modelling, so being the very first girl up for the swimwear shoot this year definitely had me feeling nervous, especially with a 4:00 am hair and makeup call. But as soon as we got down to the beach, all those nerves disappeared and I had so much fun. We’re so lucky to have such an amazing crew behind us who constantly hype us up. Everyone is genuinely the best at what they do, so I just trusted the team and can’t wait to see how the photos turned out.
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?
Good question by Lex! One perspective that’s really changed for me is believing there’ll be a “right time” to do something. I used to think I needed to feel completely ready before taking a leap, which usually meant I kept putting things off. Now I’ve realised you’ll probably never feel 100% ready, and if something scares you a little, it’s often because it’s pushing you to grow. Applying for Miss Universe Australia taught me that sometimes you just have to trust yourself and go for it.
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 my background and career aspirations. Many of the girls come from modelling, content creation or marketing backgrounds, whereas stepping in front of the camera has been a completely new experience for me. I’ve absolutely fallen in love with it and discovered a new passion, but my long-term goal is to become a psychologist. I’m passionate about advocating for a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, particularly for young people, and I hope I can bring that perspective into the Miss Universe Australia program.
What’s one skill, trip, or activity, not Miss Universe related, that you want to tick off your list before the end of 2026?
Before the end of 2026, I’d love to at least attempt to overcome my fear of heights. I’ve been terrified of heights for as long as I can remember—I won’t even get on a ladder at work! I think I probably need a little bit of exposure therapy, although I’m definitely still a little resistant to the idea!
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
My dream project would be opening my own children’s wellbeing practice. I’m incredibly passionate about supporting children during such a crucial stage of their development and creating a space that takes a holistic approach to their mental health, wellbeing and overall growth. I’d love to build a place where children and families feel supported and understood, while also creating opportunities for those who may not typically have access to these kinds of services and support they need.
If 2026 had a theme song, what would it be?
If 2026 had a theme song, it would be “Loving Life Again” by Ella Langley. I’ve always loved music and listen to a bit of everything, so this was a tricky question, but this is definitely one song I’ve had on repeat. Although I’ve never been a typical country music listener, this song really is how I’ve been feeling this year. 2026 has already been such an incredible year, with the Miss Universe Australia program creating so many opportunities, experiences and friendships that I’m incredibly grateful for. I genuinely am in love with life at the moment and feel so fulfilled.
What’s the most “you” thing currently sitting in your camera roll?
Haha, no hesitation, definitely about a million photos of flowers! I am such a flowers girl, whether it’s a bouquet I have received, purchased or I’m just walking past a florist, I will always take a hundred photos of them!!
Best piece of advice you’ve ever ignored?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever ignored is “wait until you’re older” or “get more experience first.” I often find myself being the youngest person in the room, but I’ve learnt that age doesn’t define your ability, passion or determination. People are often surprised when I tell them my age, and I’m frequently told that I am ‘very mature for my age’. While experience comes with time, I believe that if you’re passionate about something and willing to put in the work, you shouldn’t let age hold you back.
What’s a completely useless or funny talent you have that you’re weirdly proud of?
I can identify and name just about any Taylor Swift song within the first few seconds of the song. I grew up listening to her music, so I feel like her intros are just about ingrained into my brain! It’s definitely not that useful a skill, but shows I’m an OG Swiftie at heart!
Where to Watch, Sienna 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.
