The Australian Esports League (AEL) is thrilled to bring our dedicated gaming space to Oz Comic-Con Brisbane next weekend. Join us at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) on Saturday, 19 September and Sunday, 20 September. Doors are open from 9:00am to 5:00pm daily.
Whether you are looking to relax with a few casual rounds or test your aim for exciting rewards, our zone is built for players of all skill levels.
Find Us at the Event
Look for the AEL gaming zone, it is the perfect place to take a break from the busy show floor, connect with the community, and jump straight into the action.
Our space is designed to be accessible, engaging, and open to all attendees, whether you are jumping in for a quick game or aiming to take home a prize in our featured challenges.
Weekend Activities and Free-to-Play Fun
Step up to the screens and participate in our scheduled activities running throughout the entire weekend.
Nintendo Switch 2 Competitions
Grab a controller and settle some scores with friends in our daily Nintendo Switch 2 competitions. These sessions are purely for the love of the game and offer a fantastic way to meet fellow attendees..
How it works:
Mario Kart: Kicks off at 10:00am daily.
Super Smash Bros.: Kicks off at 2:00pm daily.
Prizes: No prizes on the line, just for fun!
Indomie Cornhole Challenge
Step up to the board and test your throwing accuracy in this fast-paced, highly rewarding physical challenge.
How it works:
Players sign up and take turns tossing bean bags
Each successful throw scores 1 point
1 point minimum is required to receive a free Indomie MiGoreng pack
See You There!
Oz Comic-Con Brisbane is set to be a massive weekend celebrating everything we love about pop culture and gaming. Make sure to drop by the AEL zone to experience grassroots esports in a highly welcoming and engaging environment.
We cannot wait to see you there!
The Australian Esports League is proudly sponsored by:
The Australian Esports League (AEL) is excited to announce that we are heading to Oz Comic-Con Sydney this weekend, taking place at the Sydney Showground. The event runs across Saturday, 12 September and Sunday, 13 September, with doors open from 9:00am to 5:00pm each day.
Whether you are a competitive gamer, casual player, or simply exploring everything Oz Comic-Con has to offer, the AEL brings a high-energy gaming experience packed with activities and interactive zones.
Find Us at the Event
You will find the AEL gaming zone between the district and cosplay central.
Our space is designed to be accessible, engaging, and open to all attendees, whether you are jumping in for a quick game or aiming join one of our featured challenges.
Free-to-Play Competitions & Activities
Step into the AEL zone and take part in a lineup of activities running across both days of the event.
Counter-Strike 2 Jump Castle
Think you’ve got what it takes to win a clutch?
Test your movement and agility in our dedicated PC area featuring the custom CS2 Jump Castle map.
How it works:
How it works: This is a casual, free-play zone available throughout the weekend.
Format: Free for all, line-up and join the next round.
Prizes: No prizes on the line, just for fun!
Nintendo Switch 2 Competitions
Join us for casual, just-for-fun tournaments on the Nintendo Switch 2 running each day. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some friendly competition with fellow attendees.
How it works:
Mario Kart: Kicks off at 10:00am daily.
Super Smash Bros.: Kicks off at 2:00pm daily.
Prizes: No prizes on the line, just for fun!
Indomie Cornhole Challenge
Looking for something fun and fast-paced between matches? Jump into the Indomie Cornhole Challenge.
How it works:
Players sign up and take turns tossing bean bags
Each successful throw scores 1 point
1 point minimum is required to receive a free Indomie MiGoreng pack
See You There!
Oz Comic-Con Sydney is one of Australia’s biggest celebrations of pop culture, gaming, and community.
Come by our zone, challenge your friends, test your skills, and experience esports in a fun, welcoming environment. Whether you are competing or just jumping in for a casual game, there is something for everyone.
We cannot wait to see you there!
The Australian Esports League is proudly sponsored by:
The Australian Esports League and the Australian Open have officially opened registrations for the 2026 AO Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge. This national educational initiative leverages the immersive environment of Minecraft Education to engage students in critical STEM capabilities, architectural design, and environmental sustainability.
The programme offers a highly practical opportunity to drive interactive, project-based learning within an internationally recognised sporting context. By participating, schools can integrate real-world problem-solving into their classrooms while students compete for a share of a national prize pool valued at over $25,000.
Programme Highlights
Curriculum Aligned: Challenge modules map directly to national HASS, Science, Design, and Digital Technologies curriculums across Years 4 to 12.
Real-World Problem Solving: Students will tackle scalable design projects, ranging from creating sustainable green fan zones to reimagining the entire Australian Open precinct as a technological and environmental leader.
Major Incentives: The prize pool includes full travel and accommodation packages to the Australian Open finals weekend in Melbourne, VIP on-court presentations, and premium technology bundles from AGON by AOC and HyperX.
Challenge Categories
Educators can register teams of three to five students across three age-specific tiers:
Years 4 to 6: Green Game Day. Students design a sustainable fan day precinct that reduces environmental impact while maximising visitor enjoyment.
Years 7 to 9: Smart & Sustainable Precincts. Students connect venues and public spaces using smart technology, renewable infrastructure, and inclusive design principles.
Years 10 to 12: The Future Grand Slam. Students take a whole-of-event view to reimagine the energy systems, infrastructure, and fan experience of the Australian Open as the world’s most sustainable Grand Slam.
Important Dates and Registration
Registrations for the 2026 programme close 28th September 2026.
We equip all participating educators with comprehensive support materials, including detailed lesson modules, assessment rubrics, and technical guides. To register your teams and download the official Educator Handbook, please visit the key information hub at www.ael.org.au/aochallenge2026.
Calling all high schools! Registrations for Term 3 of the Australian Esports League’s High School Esports program close 27th July!
The next term of competition is coming, and the Australian Esports League is ready to roll out another massive schedule of competitive gaming for students across Australia. Whether your school is looking to field an official team, or support individual student drivers, there is a place for everyone in Term 3.
Here is everything you need to know about what is coming up and how to lock in your spots.
AEL School Esports (Term 3)
Our core inter-school competition returns to give high school students the opportunity to represent their school in a structured, safe, and competitive environment. Build teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship on the national stage.
Registration Deadline: Monday, 27th July
Who Can Join: High schools nationwide
Format: Multi-week structured competition across flagship titles including VALORANT, Minecraft (Capture the Flag), Marvel Rivals, Super Smash and Rocket League
How to Join: School coordinators must register teams directly with the AEL and complete participation fee payments.
Get ready to hit the track! The AEL Virtual Grand Prix is returning for another high-octane season. This competition is open directly to student drivers across Australia, offering a national platform to showcase their sim-racing talent.
Registration Deadline: Wednesday, 5th August
Key Information for Families: This is a parent-funded, direct-entry event. While schools are encouraged to share the opportunity with their community, parents register and manage their child’s entry directly.
Format: Competitive virtual racing divisions with live leaderboards and officiating.
Requirements: Compatible racing setup and platform access (full details on the registration page).
If you are a teacher looking to set up an esports program at your school, or a parent needing assistance with individual registration, the AEL team is here to help. Reach out to us via schools@ael.org.au and our support staff will get back to you at their soonest availability.
Why Get Involved?
Esports is about far more than just gaming—it is a platform for developing critical skills in strategic thinking, resilience, collaboration, and digital communication. Through AEL events, students build school pride, connect with peers across the country, and learn to thrive in structured, competitive environments underpinned by good sportsmanship.
Participating in a nationally recognised AEL competition ensures your school is backed by a professional framework that puts student wellbeing, digital citizenship, and online safety first.
To help celebrate your school’s involvement, participating schools also receive media assets to showcase student achievements, driving school spirit and highlighting your commitment to innovative extracurricular opportunities.
A Safe and Monitored Environment
Student safety and digital wellbeing are our highest priorities.
All AEL competitions are conducted within restricted, monitored digital environments tailored to each event type. Access is strictly limited to registered participants and verified educators, with active oversight and robust moderation standards maintained across all platforms to ensure a secure, respectful, and positive experience for every student.
We look forward to seeing your school compete in Term 3!
The AEL School League has wrapped up an action‑packed Term 1, with students from across Australia showcasing their skill, teamwork and competitive spirit across multiple esports titles.
From intense one‑on‑one matchups to coordinated squad play, the opening term delivered standout performances across Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Marvel Rivals, Rocket League and Minecraft Capture the Flag, setting the benchmark for the 2026 season.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
The Smash Bros. competition featured strong individual performances across two divisions.
Division 1
🥇 Flare – Oakleigh Grammar
🥈 Chwomper – Villanova College
🥉 yabadadoo – Concordia Lutheran College
Division 2
🥇 Gao – Oakleigh Grammar
🥈 BarryTV – Gorokan High School
🥉 Adopte – Oakleigh Grammar
Oakleigh Grammar enjoyed a particularly successful term, securing multiple podium finishes across both divisions.
Marvel Rivals
The Marvel Rivals competition delivered a tightly contested main bracket, with school teams demonstrating strategic depth and consistency throughout the term.
Main Bracket
🥇 St Peter’s Lutheran College
🥈 MacKillop Catholic College
🥉 Trinity College Queensland
Consolation Bracket
🥇 Brisbane School of Distance Education
🥈 Phoenix P–12 Community College
Rocket League
Rocket League saw high‑intensity matches and several undefeated runs across three divisions.
Division 1
🥇 Phoenix P–12 Community College (undefeated)
🥈 Ashdale Secondary College
🥉 Launceston College
Division 2
🥇 Drouin Secondary College (Squad 1)
🥈 Geelong Lutheran College – Armstrong Creek
🥉 Drouin Secondary College (Squad 2)
Division 3
🥇 St Andrew’s Anglican College, Cairns
🥈 St Andrew’s Anglican College, Cairns
🥉 Bishop Druitt College
Minecraft Capture the Flag
Teamwork was on full display in Minecraft CTF, with squads battling it out for podium positions.
Main Bracket
🥇 Ashdale Secondary College
🥈 St Peter’s Lutheran College
🥉 Phoenix P–12 Community College
Consolation Bracket
🥇 Trinity Anglican College
🥈 Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College, Kensington
The AEL School League continues to grow as a platform for students to compete, collaborate and develop digital and esports skills in a structured school‑based environment.
The AEL proudly thanks its sponsors AGON by AOC, HyperX, Officeworks and Indomie Australia for their ongoing support of school esports programs across the country.
Registrations Now Open for Term 2
Registrations for Term 2 of the AEL School League are now open, with entries closing on May 11.
The first-ever AEL Virtual Grand Prix (VGP) Victorian Students Competition has crowned its champions, capping off an electrifying race activation at the Melbourne Grand Prix Innovation Hub that drew thousands of student spectators across the day.
The AEL race stop was a hive of activity, with students lining up to take to the virtual track, test their racing skills and experience esports competition in a world‑class motorsport environment. The enthusiasm on display reflected growing student interest in esports and sim racing pathways, particularly as Australia looks toward the future of motorsport and digital competition.
After a tightly contested series of races, three students emerged as podium finishers in the inaugural Victorian edition of the Virtual Grand Prix:
🥇 Julien, St Francis Catholic College, Melton
🥈 Corbin, Vermont Secondary College
🥉 Anton, Buckley Park Secondary College
Each finalist demonstrated impressive racecraft, composure under pressure and technical skill, The event formed a key milestone in the broader launch of the AEL Virtual Grand Prix for Victorian schools, which was announced earlier this year as a new competitive platform designed to engage students through esports, STEM-aligned learning, and career pathways connected to motorsport, technology and digital industries.
The Melbourne activation gave students hands-on access to professional-grade racing setups while showcasing how esports can connect education, competition and industry at a large-scale public event.
AEL also acknowledged the support of Xbox Game Pass, with EA Play’s F1 25 available on the day through a Game Pass Ultimate subscription, allowing students to experience the latest Formula 1 title in a competitive, live setting.
The success of the event was made possible through collaboration with AEL’s partners, including AGON by AOC, Indomie Australia, HyperX, and Officeworks, whose contributions helped deliver a high-quality, inclusive experience for visiting students.
Looking ahead, AEL confirmed that the Virtual Grand Prix is just getting started. The organisation plans to continue delivering the competition term-by-term, expanding opportunities for students across Victoria while building momentum toward the 2027 Melbourne Grand Prix.
“Going forward, AEL is building something special,” an AEL spokesperson said. “The Virtual Grand Prix will continue to grow, giving students more chances to compete, connect and explore future pathways through esports and motorsport.”
With strong student participation, enthusiastic crowds and a showcase podium finish, the inaugural AEL Virtual Grand Prix has laid the foundation for a flagship student competition that blends education, esports and world-class racing culture.
The Australian Esports League is excited to announce that we’re heading back to Oz Comic-Con Perth this weekend, taking place March 28–29 at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Whether you’re a seasoned gamer, a curious newcomer, or just looking for something fun to do between panels and cosplay showcases, the AEL has something for you!
Find Us at the Event 📍
You’ll find the AEL right next to the Main Stage, making it easy to jump in between your favourite panels, shows, and meet-and-greets.
Free Play Gaming Zone 🎮
Step into the AEL gaming zone and jump straight into the action with our free play area open to all attendees.
We’ll be showcasing the latest in high-performance gaming with AGON by AOC monitors, paired with:
Nintendo Switch 2
Xbox Series S
It’s the perfect place to test your skills, try out new games, and hang out with friends in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
F1 25 Fastest Lap Challenge 🏎️
Think you’ve got what it takes to be the fastest on track?
Join our F1 25 Fastest Lap Competition, running across both days of the event. Set your best lap time and climb the leaderboard for your shot at daily prizes!
Powered by HyperX gaming peripherals (available at Officeworks), this is your chance to race with top-tier gear and prove your speed.
Daily prizes will be awarded to the fastest drivers, so make sure you give it your best shot!
Learn to Play Magic: The Gathering 🧙
Looking to try something new or return to a classic?
Head to the centre of the exhibition hall where the AEL team will be running a Learn to Play experience for Magic: The Gathering.
Perfect for new players and returning fans
Guided sessions from our friendly team
FREE Welcome Deck for every participant
It’s a great way to meet people, learn the game, and dive into one of the world’s most iconic trading card experiences.
See You There!
Oz Comic-Con Perth is always an incredible celebration of gaming, pop culture, and community, and we’re proud to be part of it once again.
Come say hello, jump into a game, set a lap time, or learn something new. We can’t wait to see you there!
What began in the immersive world of Minecraft Education reached its unforgettable climax on one of sport’s biggest stages, as the winning students from the Australian Open 2025 Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge were celebrated at Australian Open 2026.
Student teams across three divisions of Years 4–6, 7–9 and 10–12 from around Australia were rewarded with an experience money simply can’t buy: tickets to both the Men’s and Women’s Grand Slam Finals, a behind‑the‑scenes tour of the AO, and the chance to step onto one of the Australian Open’s most iconic courts.
A Front‑Row Seat to Grand Slam History
After being crowned champions last year, the winning teams travelled to Melbourne to witness tennis history firsthand, attending both finals of AO 2026 in an atmosphere few will ever forget.
Beyond match day excitement, the students were invited on an exclusive Behind the Scenes Australian Open tour, gaining rare access to areas normally reserved for players, media, and officials. Highlights included:
The Media Centre, where global tennis moments are broadcast to millions
The Champion’s Walk, showcasing legends of the sport
The Player’s Lounge, offering a glimpse into athlete life at a Grand Slam
Insight into the inner operations that power one of the world’s premier sporting events
For many students, this was their first time seeing how creativity, logistics, technology, and sport intersect at a world‑class event.
Standing Where Champions Play
One of the most memorable moments came when students were invited onto Arena 1573, where they captured photos on the court itself, a rare opportunity that left more than a few jaws dropped.
They also posed with Australia’s most coveted prizes:
The Norman Brookes Challenge Cup (Men’s Singles Trophy)
The Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup (Women’s Singles Trophy)
Standing beside these iconic trophies offered a powerful reminder of how imagination, innovation and hard work, even when starting in Minecraft, can open extraordinary doors.
Celebrating Student Innovation
Each winning team was also presented with a custom‑made trophy designed by Hench & Scrap, alongside additional prizes celebrating their creativity, collaboration, and vision for the future of the Australian Open precinct.
The Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge, delivered by the Australian Esports League in partnership with the Australian Open, invited students to rebuild and reimagine the Australian Open precinct in Melbourne Park within Minecraft Education blending digital design, sustainability, and future‑focused thinking.
Across the divisions, students tackled ambitious briefs:
Years 4–6 – “Future Focus” Students designed the AO FutureScape District, exploring sustainability and fan experience through youthful imagination.
Years 7–9 – “Connected Futures” Teams designed a key stadium plus three interlinked precinct areas, focusing on connectivity, accessibility, and innovation.
Years 10–12 – “The Ultimate Re‑imagining: AO for the Future” Students undertook a complete reimagining of the entire Australian Open precinct, presenting bold visions for the future of sport and entertainment.
The competition attracted student builders from across Australia, competing for a share of a prize pool valued at more than $25,000 and the chance to see their ideas celebrated on a global stage.
2025 Schools Block Buster Challenge Winners
Years 4–6 – “Future Focus”
School: Abbotsleigh
Team Name: The Mining Minions
Students: Elsa, Vera, Angela, Aceline
Years 7–9 – “Connected Futures”
School: Hills Grammar School
Team Name: EcoPastels
Students: Audrey, Wendy, Candice
Years 10–12 – “The Ultimate Re‑imagining: AO for the Future”
From reimagining stadiums block by block to standing courtside at a Grand Slam final, these students’ journeys are a powerful example of how education, technology, creativity, and sport can come together to inspire the next generation.
Congratulations to all the winning teams, your ideas didn’t just stay in Minecraft. They earned a place at the heart of the Australian Open.
The Australian Esports League (AEL) and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation have partnered to create the ultimate motorsport experience for Victorian students: the AEL Virtual Grand Prix.
Powered by Xbox Game Pass, this premier tournament invites students from across the state to compete for racing glory. We are combining the thrill of the Grand Prix™ event with a structured esports competition, offering a unique blend of digital motorsport and real-world excitement.
Top qualifiers will earn a spot in the Champions Pool, representing their school and attending the Grand Prix™ on Thursday, March 5th to compete in the Grand Finals live from the Innovation Hub. This is the “Start Line” for the next generation of motorsport and gaming fans.
How to Register Registration is now open. Students and teachers can visit the official portal to view the full rule set, qualifier dates, and registration instructions. Secure your spot on the grid today at: www.ael.org.au/virtualgrandprix
From the Classroom to the Circuit The tournament is open to all students aged 10-18 currently enrolled in a Victorian school, providing an accessible pathway into competitive esports. Aspiring drivers have two ways to earn their grid position:
Secondary Division (Ages 13-18 / Years 7-12): Competitors will race in Online Qualifiers over the weekend of February 28 – March 1. Students can play from home or school on their own hardware (F1® 24 on PC or Xbox) with a stable internet connection. The Top 12 Drivers will qualify for the live finals.
Primary Division (Ages 10-12): A dedicated Junior Qualifier will be hosted in-person at Kingsville Primary on Saturday, February 28. Students will compete on AEL-provided Xbox consoles and controllers. The Top 4 Drivers will qualify for the live finals. (Note: A parent or guardian must remain on-site for supervision).
Each student who qualifies for the Champions Pool will earn a ticket for themselves and one parent to attend the live finals.
Race Where the Pros Race The grand final isn’t played in a classroom or from home. It is played metres from the track at the FORMULA 1® QATAR AIRWAYS AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2026.
The Venue: The Innovation Hub presented by Engineers Australia is the epicentre of future technology at Albert Park. It is a dedicated showcase where the brightest minds in motorsport, defence, aviation, and STEM come together.
The Atmosphere: Finalists won’t just be competing; they will be immersed in the electric energy of the Grand Prix™. Experience the roar of the engines, the smell of burning rubber, and the cutting-edge tech of the paddock. This is the ultimate excursion for any motorsport fan.
A Pathway for Future Talent “This competition is about more than just fast laps; it’s about giving students a platform to showcase their talent on a national stage,” says Darren Kwan, Director of the Australian Esports League. “Thanks to Xbox Game Pass and the realism of modern racing simulators, we are bridging the gap between gaming and professional motorsport, giving students a taste of the pressure and excitement of the Grand Prix™ paddock.”
About the Australian Esports League (AEL): The AEL is a leading provider of esports tournaments and gaming events in Australia, dedicated to building the grassroots ecosystem and providing structured competitions for schools, universities, and community groups.
The Australian Esports League is thrilled to officially launch the 2026 High School esports season.
Following significant upgrades to our platform and resources, Term 1 promises to be our most competitive and accessible season yet. We invite high schools across Australia to join hundreds of others in providing a structured, safe, and highly engaging arena for their students to compete, connect, and develop crucial future skills.
Registrations are open immediately for students in Years 7 through 12, with competition kicking off on February 21st.
The AEL is proudly sponsored by AGON by AOC the Gaming Monitor partner, Indomie Australia the Noodle partner, HyperX the Gaming Peripheral partner and Officeworks a retail partner.
More Than Just a Game
Esports in schools is moving beyond casual lunchtime play. It is rapidly becoming recognized as a legitimate “digital sport” that offers the same benefits as traditional field sports: communication under pressure, strategic planning, accountability, and resilience in the face of defeat.
Our Term 1 leagues provide a teacher-supervised environment where students can represent their school crest on a national stage, fostering school pride and engaging students who may not participate in traditional athletics.
The Term 1 Lineup
We have curated a diverse selection of titles to suit different skill sets, from high-speed teamwork to strategic engineering.
Rocket League (3v3): The premier digital sport combining soccer with physics-based driving.
Marvel Rivals (6v6): The new team-based hero shooter emphasizing role synergy and cooperation.
Minecraft: Capture the Flag (5v5): A test of engineering, resource management, and defensive strategy within Minecraft Education.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (1v1): A fast-paced test of mental agility, reaction time, and sportsmanship.
To coincide with the 2026 launch, we have completely rebuilt the AEL Schools Hub. Teachers can now access game-specific resources, parent information letters, rulebooks, and simplified registration forms all in one place.
Contact the AEL via schools@ael.org.au about accessing the hub!
There are no team caps for any titles, allowing schools to enter as many squads as they wish to ensure maximum participation.
Key Dates & How to Register
Registrations Open: Now
Registrations Close: Monday, 16 February
Week 1 Begins: Saturday, 21 February
To register, a supervising teacher must complete the school registration form. Parents and students are encouraged to direct their teachers to the AEL website.
We look forward to seeing your school on the virtual pitch this term!
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