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In 2024, history was written when Jessica Lane, a Queensland-based journalism student with a lifelong passion for environmental change, shattered records on the global pageant stage. On August 11 at the Bryan Brown Theatre in Sydney, she claimed the title of Miss Earth Australia 2024, becoming the first Queenslander ever to do so.
Jessica’s victory was emphatic—sweeping 11 out of 15 special awards including Miss Photogenic, Best in Swimwear, Miss Earth Charity, and StarCentral’s Choice. Yet this triumph was only the beginning. Three months later in Manila, Jessica competed at Okada Manila against more than 75 international delegates and rose to capture the Miss Earth 2024 crown, marking Australia’s first win in the pageant’s history. With her victory, Australia joined the rare circle of nations that have now claimed all four major international crowns—Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss International, and Miss Earth.
Jessica’s success, however, extends far beyond the glamour of the stage. Born in Melbourne and now based in Queensland, she is pursuing a degree in journalism, creative writing, and publishing at the University of the Sunshine Coast, determined to become an environmental journalist. Her dedication to advocacy was evident long before her reign: at just eight years old, she launched her first fundraiser to end animal testing, and a decade later, she shaved her head to raise nearly $10,000 for leukaemia patients.
Photo Credit: Paul Vasquez
Her Miss Earth platform focuses on marine conservation, where she has campaigned relentlessly for the removal of shark nets in Queensland through organisations such as Nets Out Now and Sea Shepherd, while highlighting the risks these nets pose to whales, turtles, and dolphins. She also champions sustainable fashion, modelling eco-conscious designs and amplifying initiatives like Sydney’s Ocean Lovers Festival, which unites clean-ups, film screenings, and ocean-inspired art to engage communities in marine preservation.
During her journey in the Philippines, Jessica endured six typhoons while actively participating in relief efforts, turtle care programs, and education campaigns. Her international reach has since expanded to youth sustainability forums in Indonesia, collaborative dialogues with the United Nations in New York, and advocacy meetings in Washington DC. Her unique blend of storytelling and activism is exemplified in her pageant gowns, which incorporated recycled fishing nets and designs inspired by marine life, merging artistry with purpose.
With travels to ten countries already under her belt since her crowning, Jessica continues to embody her vision of intentional sustainability, climate solidarity, and youth empowerment. Her reign is not simply about wearing a crown but about transforming it into a megaphone for global environmental action—a legacy that redefines what beauty and leadership mean on the world stage.
1. Congratulations on becoming Miss Earth 2024! What was the first thought that crossed your mind when your name was announced as the winner?
When my name was called, it felt as though time slowed down. I thought of my family, my country, and the little girl who used to write petitions to save animals. I was overwhelmed with gratitude — not only for winning, but for the opportunity to represent Australia on the global stage for the first time in Miss Earth history.
Photo Credit: Paul Vasquez
2. Your advocacy played a crucial role in your Miss Earth journey. Can you tell us more about it and how you plan to expand your efforts on a global scale?
My advocacy is about showing that individual actions can create ripple effects for the planet. I founded Dress for Tomorrow, a charity that empowers people to embrace sustainable fashion and reduce the devastating environmental impact of fast fashion — an industry that ranks among the largest contributors to pollution, waste, and carbon emissions. Through storytelling, workshops, and partnerships, we demonstrate how fashion can be a force for good when designed and worn with intention.
Alongside this, I continue my ocean conservation work, particularly advocating for the removal of outdated shark nets in Queensland that trap and kill dolphins, turtles, and whales. On a global scale, I plan to expand Dress for Tomorrow internationally, collaborate with NGOs to promote ethical fashion supply chains, and launch a worldwide petition to end destructive fishing practices. By connecting communities, industries, and individuals, I aim to inspire a shift toward conscious consumption and ocean protection worldwide.
3. As Miss Earth, you’re now a global voice for environmental protection. What do you believe is the most urgent environmental issue the world is facing today, and what concrete steps should we take to address it?
I believe the most urgent issue is the collapse of biodiversity — the loss of species and ecosystems at an alarming rate. In fact, Australia has one of the fastest rates of extinction in the world. Concrete steps include ending destructive industrial trawl fishing and deforestation, transitioning to truly renewable energy, and holding industries accountable for waste and emissions. Equally important is empowering local communities to protect their natural environments and ensuring that every small decision we make as consumers helps safeguard our planet — because real change starts with us.
Photo Credit: Paul Vasquez
4. Australia has a rich and diverse natural environment. How has growing up in Australia shaped your passion for sustainability and conservation?
Growing up surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef, rainforests, and unique wildlife taught me that we are part of nature, not separate from it. I have witnessed both the breathtaking beauty of our land and sea, as well as the damage caused by human activity. That contrast has fuelled my lifelong commitment to speak up for our planet and for those without a voice.
5. The Miss Earth platform emphasizes beauty with a purpose. How do you balance the glamour of pageantry with the serious responsibilities of being an environmental ambassador?
For me, the glamour is simply another tool to draw attention to the cause. Wearing a beautiful gown made from sustainable fabrics becomes a conversation starter about the fashion industry’s environmental impact. Pageantry and advocacy aren’t opposites — they’re two sides of the same coin when used with purpose.
Photo Credit: Paul Vasquez
6. Social media is a powerful tool. How do you plan to use your platform to educate and inspire others, especially the youth, about environmental action?
Through my social media, I aim to share a mix of storytelling content — from short, engaging videos that explain environmental issues in simple terms, to behind-the-scenes insights into conservation projects. I also want to highlight everyday heroes — young people and community members doing incredible environmental work. When young people see someone just like them making an impact, they realise they can too.
Photo Credit: Paul Vasquez
7. What was the most challenging moment during your Miss Earth 2024 journey, and how did you overcome it?
One of the most challenging moments was visiting communities in developing countries where children and families live with limited access to education, clean environments, and healthcare, and where the streets are often lined with litter. Witnessing this was heartbreaking, but what struck me most was the joy and resilience in their smiles. It reminded me that hope and happiness do not come from material wealth — and that real change begins with compassion, understanding, and action. That lesson has stayed with me throughout my Miss Earth journey and continues to fuel my commitment to creating a cleaner, fairer world for all.
8. Climate change can feel overwhelming for many people. What would you say to someone who wants to help but doesn’t know where to start?
Start small, but start now. Choose one action — whether it is reducing single-use plastics, supporting sustainable businesses, or joining a local environmental group — and commit to it. Action creates momentum, and momentum inspires others. No one can do everything, but everyone can do something.
Photo Credit: Paul Vasquez
9. If you had the opportunity to address world leaders at a global climate summit, what key message would you want them to hear from Miss Earth 2024?
I would tell them that environmental protection is not a side issue — it is the foundation of our survival, economies, and future generations. Policies must prioritise ecosystems and biodiversity, not just financial growth. Protecting nature means protecting ourselves.
10. Looking ahead, what legacy do you hope to leave as Miss Earth 2024, and how do you envision your role in environmental advocacy after your reign ends?
I want my legacy to empower others, to show that one voice can spark a movement. I hope to leave behind stronger community-led conservation projects, greater awareness of sustainable fashion, and tangible wins for ocean wildlife protection. After my reign, I will continue as a journalist, storyteller, and advocate, using every platform I have to champion the planet we call home.
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