Historic Miss Universe Australia contestant breaks age barriers

Miss Universe Australia is  

The oldest contestant in the beauty pageant's history has signed up after age restrictions were lifted.

Christina Dietze, 38, is hoping to land the crown like her hero, Miss Universe Australia 2004 Jennifer Hawkins, despite being described as 'pushing 40'.

The model and fashion designer, who hails from South Yarra, Victoria, says that she's kept herself in good nick and deserves a shot at the title. 

'I've taken care of myself and I've been in the modelling industry for a while now,' she told the Herald Sun. 

'I feel once we get to our 30s we have lived through some tougher experiences in life and we grow. I have something to share and give back,' she added. 

Christina says she has been 'doing Pilates every day' in preparation. 

While previous contestants could be aged from 18 to 28 years only, from 2023 onwards, women over 28 have been allowed to enter. 

Restrictions around marital status have also been lifted, meaning married and divorced women, as well as mothers, can enter. 

Despite the inclusive rule change, last year's winner was just 21.  

Lexie Brant, an occupational therapy student and model from , took out the title of Miss Universe Australia 2025 in a glamorous ceremony held in .

The blonde beauty wowed judges as she beat out 28 other hopefuls from across the country to claim , earning her place as the nation's representative at the international Miss Universe competition.

Brant was handed the crown by outgoing titleholder Zoe Creed, who competed in 2024's global finals in .

Wearing a glittering silver gown and radiant smile, Lexie looked every bit the winner as she took centre stage during the highly anticipated finale.