Today we’re chatting with Tahlia Reeve from Western Australia, 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 Tahlia, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
I’m 23 years old from Perth, Western Australia and work as a Social Media and Marketing Manager for various local businesses, which has allowed me to combine my love of marketing and creativity. Outside of work, I love travelling, trying new experiences, and challenging myself to grow, which is one of the reasons Miss Universe Australia has been such an incredible journey for me.
What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?
I decided to enter the Miss Universe program as I wanted to challenge myself in a completely new environment. Miss Universe is so much more than a pageant; it’s about personal growth, confidence, and stepping out of your comfort zone. Throughout this journey, I’ve discovered strengths I never knew I had, but what has surprised me most is the incredible friendships I’ve formed. I’ve met some of my closest friends through this program, and being surrounded by such inspiring, supportive women has made the experience even more meaningful.
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?
Vietnam was honestly a trip of a lifetime. Staying at the beautiful Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh was such an incredible experience. The resort was absolutely stunning, and the staff were so welcoming and accommodating throughout our stay. It was one of the highlights of my year and gave me so many unforgettable memories. My favourite part, though, was getting to know all of the amazing women in the program. Spending that time together allowed us to build genuine friendships, and it’s where some of my closest friendships today truly began.
What’s one moment from the trip you don’t think you’ll ever forget?
One moment I’ll never forget was one of our dinners when my friend and fellow contestant, Chelsea Ameduri, got up with the live band and sang “Valerie” by Amy Winehouse. I honestly had no idea she could sing, and she was incredible. We were all so shocked! By the end of the song, everyone was up dancing and singing along. It was such a fun night, and it’s one of those memories I’ll always look back on and smile. I think it really captures how special the Vietnam trip was.
As part of the trip, you also took part in your official swimwear shoot with Unnecessary. What was the experience like?
Unnecessary is such an incredible brand, and I absolutely love the swimsuits we were all gifted; they’ve definitely become some of my favourite pieces. The entire shoot was such an amazing experience because everything was kept as a surprise. We didn’t see our swimwear or our creative inspiration until the day of the shoot, which made it so exciting. What I loved most was how personalised everything was. Each concept was thoughtfully tailored to our individual personalities, which made us all feel so comfortable and confident in front of the camera. It really felt like they wanted each of us to shine in our own unique way.
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 belief I’ve changed my mind about recently is confidence. I’ve realised that confidence isn’t something you simply wake up with; it’s something you build by doing things that scare you. Before Miss Universe Australia, I often thought I needed to feel confident before putting myself out there. This experience completely changed that mindset. Every challenge, whether it was walking on stage, travelling with a group of women I’d never met, or stepping in front of the camera, pushed me outside my comfort zone. Looking back, I realise confidence came afterwards. The more I challenged myself, the more I grew, and that’s a lesson I’ll carry with me long after this competition.
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 creativity and the way I connect with people. I genuinely love getting to know others and hearing their stories because I believe everyone has something valuable to share. Through my work in marketing, I’ve learnt that the best relationships are built on authenticity, and that’s something I carry into every part of my life. I’m also someone who isn’t afraid to challenge myself. Whether it’s starting my own business, travelling to new places, or entering Miss Universe Australia, I’ve learnt that growth comes from saying yes to opportunities, even when they’re a little intimidating. I think my curiosity, creativity, and willingness to keep learning are what make me who I am.
What’s one skill, trip, or activity, not Miss Universe related, that you want to tick off your list before the end of 2026?
By the end of 2026, I’d love to learn how to properly play the piano. I recently bought one for my house and have been teaching myself the basics. My goal is to be able to sit down and play a few of my favourite songs by the end of the year.
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
If I could work on any dream project, it would be creating my own clothing brand from the ground up. I’ve always been passionate about fashion, and I love the idea of building a brand that reflects my own creativity and vision. With a background in social media and marketing, I think those skills would go hand in hand with launching and growing a business. Being able to create something from an idea and watch it evolve into a brand that people genuinely love would be incredibly rewarding.
If 2026 had a theme song, what would it be?
My theme song for 2026 would definitely be “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield. The lyrics are all about embracing new opportunities, taking chances, and remembering that your story is still being written, and I think that’s exactly what this year has been for me. From entering Miss Universe Australia to travelling overseas, making lifelong friendships, and stepping outside my comfort zone, I’ve realised there’s so much more to life than just where you live or what you’re used to. There are so many incredible people, places, and experiences waiting beyond your comfort zone, and this year has reminded me to keep saying yes to new opportunities and enjoy the journey.
What’s the most “you” thing currently sitting in your camera roll?
Half of my camera roll is filled with photos of my Toy Cavoodle pup, Bobbi! I’m completely obsessed with him and love dressing him up in the cutest little outfits. He’s honestly my whole soul in a dog, and I never get tired of taking photos and videos of him. If you scroll through my camera roll, you’ll quickly realise he’s definitely the star of the show.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever ignored?
“Don’t worry about what other people think.” It’s advice I used to ignore because I cared too much about other people’s opinions. As I’ve grown, I’ve realised that the people who matter will support you, and you can’t let the fear of judgment stop you from chasing what you want.
What’s a completely useless or funny talent you have that you’re weirdly proud of?
I somehow know the lyrics to hundreds and hundreds of songs, but ask me what I walked into a room for, and I couldn’t tell you. I like to think my brain has just prioritised music over everything else!
Where to Watch Tahlia 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.
