What is the Supanova Cosplay Competition?

The Supanova Cosplay Competition is back for 2026! Wear your best costumes, strut your stuff and strike a pose, with some awesome prizes up for grabs!

Here’s a quick rundown on what’s involved.

• The Supanova Cosplay Competition will run on Sunday afternoon!
• Solo or Group entries accepted.
• Groups are hard capped at a maximum of four (4) people.
• No bought costumes. (See FAQ below for more details)
• Entrants will be eligible for Best In Show, Best Craftsmanship, Best Group, Most Creative, Best Performance, and the Judges Choice categories!
• Skits and performances are here to stay in the Cosplay Competition. Ensure you read all our FAQs and remember to fill out both forms.
• Pre-registration encouraged, as spots will fill fast.
• Entrants can choose to either speak with our MC on stage, or submit a few dot points about their costume for our Cosplay MC to read out.
• Small number of reserve spots available on each day.

Introducing Divisions

Supanova’s Cosplay Competition is evolving! We’re introducing Pro and Amateur divisions for single entrants, giving cosplayers the chance to compete alongside others with a similar level of experience. Each division will have its own Craftsmanship and Creativity awards, while all entrants will still be in the running for Judge’s Choice and Best in Show. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned maker, this new structure aims to celebrate the incredible talent and imagination of cosplayers at every level.

Not sure which division to enter? Use the guide below to help determine whether Amateur or Pro is the best fit for you. These divisions are designed to group entrants with similar levels of experience.

Amateur Division
You may wish to enter Amateur if you:

• Are relatively new to cosplay or costume making
• Primarily cosplay for fun or as a hobby
• Have little or no experience competing in cosplay competitions
• Have not previously won major craftsmanship awards at conventions
• Are still learning and developing your costume-making skills

Pro Division
You may wish to enter Pro if you:

• Have significant experience creating complex cosplay builds
• Regularly compete in cosplay competitions
• Have previously won major craftsmanship or overall awards at conventions
• Take commissions, work professionally, or have advanced technical skills in costume making
• Feel confident competing against highly experienced makers

No matter which division you enter, all single entrants will still be eligible for the overall awards of Judge’s Choice and Best in Show.

Please note: entrants who register in the Amateur division may be moved to the Pro division if the judges determine the costume meets a Pro standard.

How do I sign up?

Please make sure you have read the Cosplay Competition Rules & Regulations and Cosplay Guidelines & Weapons Policy  pages before completing the form below. If you don’t read them, you may not be able to enter the competition.

Registration Deadlines

Registration is slated to close at 11:59pm AEST on Sunday, 5th April 2026, but may close sooner if the competition is filled to capacity. Please note that once the pre-registration form closes, no further entries will be accepted online, and you will need to visit Cosplay HQ before 12:00pm on the day in order to add your name to the reserve list.

FAQ

1. What do I need to do before the competition?
   Fill in the form below, and check in at Cosplay HQ before 12PM on the day!
2. Where do I go for marshalling?
   You will be told when and where to go when you check in. Please listen carefully and follow all instructions provided to you at Cosplay HQ.
3. What costumes can I wear?
   Anything that complies with our Cosplay Guidelines is acceptable.
4. What about bought costumes?
   Unfortunately you won’t be eligible to participate in the new Cosplay Competition. We prefer it if you make your costume yourself, or if a bought costume has been significantly altered. Buying individual items to create something unique is totally fine! Please speak to someone at Cosplay HQ when checking in if you’re unsure.
5. Can I wear something I’ve worn before?
   You certainly can, however please note that costumes that have won awards in other competitions are not eligible to win prizes at our event.
6. Will my weapons or props get confiscated?
   As long as your props comply with our Weapons Policy, you won’t run into any issues.
7. Can I do a performance?
   You sure can! Please ensure you fill out both registration forms, and make sure you check your emails for details on how to send through your performance files.
8. What if my costume is busted on the day?
   Supanova has a Cosplay Repair Station which can be found at Cosplay HQ. Our skilled team is able to assess and repair your costume, give you quality advice, and get you out and ready for your photo shoots and onto the stage for the competition.

Registration Form

All fields must be filled out for your application to be successful. One entry per person. If you are registering for a group, please make sure only one application is submitted per group, as multiple applications received for single groups may result in that registration being declined.

Please help us in getting you registered smoothly by accurately completing this form.