The Dural resident was crowned in a lavish event in Toorak, Victoria on Wednesday, beating 28 of the country's most beautiful women.

The former Mt St Benedict's student, speaking to the Hills News last week, said she was overwhelmed by the experience.

``It felt amazing to win,'' she said. ``I've always looked up to previous Miss Australias like Jen Hawkins and Erin Mcnaught and it would be great to reach their success.

``I'm over the moon,'' the 21-year-old psychology student said.

During the two-hour function, contestants were judged on stage presence, poise, charisma, beauty and intelligence. It included a

catwalk parade of cocktail and evening gowns and white bikinis.

The public might like to believe there are backstage catfights in beauty pageants but it was not like that, Ms Dundovic said. In fact, she said she had a great time with the other contestants.

``They were so nice and we worked really well as a team.''

The 28 beauties had to answer questions from the judges, including boxer Kostya Tszyu, in front of an audience. They were asked how they would improve Australia, how they would help homeless people and who would they have invited to the recent 2020 Summit, among other questions.

The model thanked her family, who all attended, and her boyfriend for their support.

``I believe their support was one of the things that worked in my favour. I have a really supportive family and a lot of confidence in myself,'' she said.

``Of course I'm hoping to be crowned Miss Universe. If I win, I think I could be a great ambassador for Australia.''

Ms Dundovic was involved with community work as a student, volunteering at local nursing homes and helping children affected by Down syndrome.