Today we’re chatting with Tegan Headley 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 Tegan, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
I’m currently studying Exercise & Sport Science at Notre Dame University, with the goal of becoming a physiotherapist. I’m passionate about helping people move, recover and feel their best. Outside of uni, you’ll usually find me at the beach, training, or chasing my next adventure. I love stepping outside my comfort zone and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way.
What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?
What drew me to Miss Universe Australia was the incredible community behind it. It’s so much more than a pageant; it’s a program that empowers women to grow in confidence, develop leadership skills, and use their voices to make a positive impact. Being surrounded by such inspiring, driven women motivates me to become the best version of myself every day.
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 an unforgettable experience. The resort was absolutely stunning, but what made the trip so special was the people. Spending quality time with the Miss Universe Australia team and getting to know the other national finalists created memories I’ll treasure forever. It was the perfect balance of personal growth, fun, and making lifelong friendships.
What’s one moment from the trip you don’t think you’ll ever forget?
Without a doubt, it was the friendships we built. Sharing laughs over incredible Vietnamese food, supporting each other throughout the trip, and creating memories together made the experience so special. I know many of those girls will be lifelong friends.
As part of the trip, you also took part in your official swimwear shoot with Unnecessary. What was the experience like?
It was such a fun experience! Having our hair styled by our National Hair Director, David, and our makeup done by Miss Universe Australia Makeup Artist Alarna made everyone feel so confident. There was so much excitement on set, and it was amazing watching everyone encourage one another while creating such beautiful images.
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?
I’ve realised that confidence doesn’t come from having everything figured out; it comes from being willing to show up, even when you feel nervous or uncertain. This journey has taught me that growth happens when you embrace discomfort, and some of the most rewarding experiences come from saying “yes” before you feel completely ready.
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 willingness to dive headfirst into new challenges. If something scares me or pushes me outside my comfort zone, I’m usually the first to give it a go. For my 21st birthday, I decided to hike Bluff Knoll despite having never been on a proper hike before. I had just four days to prepare, but I loved every second of it. That adventurous mindset is something I carry into every area of my life.
What’s one skill, trip, or activity, not Miss Universe related, that you want to tick off your list before the end of 2026?
Learning how to surf is at the top of my list. Growing up in Western Australia, I’ve always loved the ocean, but I’ve never fully committed to learning. Before the end of 2026, I’d love to challenge myself, embrace being a beginner, and finally catch my first proper wave.
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
I’d love to create a wellness foundation that combines physiotherapy, mental health support, movement, and education for young people. My dream is to make quality health care and wellbeing resources more accessible while empowering people to live healthier, happier lives.
If 2026 had a theme song, what would it be?
“Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield. This year has been all about embracing new opportunities, stepping outside my comfort zone, and trusting that the best chapters are still being written.
What’s the most “you” thing currently sitting in your camera roll?
A sunrise beach photo followed by a sweaty Bluff Knoll selfie.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever ignored?
“You’ll never grow in the environments where you’re comfortable.” The biggest lessons and opportunities in my life have come from stepping into situations that challenged me and pushed me to become a better version of myself.
What’s a completely useless or funny talent you have that you’re weirdly proud of?
I can fall asleep almost anywhere! Planes, cars, airports, you name it. If I sit still for long enough, I’m probably having a nap.
Where to Watch, Tegan 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.
