Mark your calendars for July 5-6, because Melbourne is set to become a collector’s haven. The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre will be buzzing with excitement as it hosts Collect Fest 2025. Whether you’re a die-hard collector or someone who revels in the world of pop culture, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

Who’s Into Collecting These Days?
You might be surprised to know that collecting has become more than just a niche hobby. In fact, around 7.6 million Australians are involved in it, which is about one in three adults. While there’s a significant number of young collectors, especially within the 18-24 age group, the world of collecting is diverse. Some pursue it for nostalgia, others for the sheer love of the items, and quite a few see it as a lucrative investment. Remarkably, some savvy collectors have earned approximately $13,000 over three years.
What You’ll Find at Collect Fest
Imagine this: aisles upon aisles filled with treasures for every pop culture enthusiast:
- Classic action figures that whisk you back to childhood
- Trading cards that could be worth a significant sum
- Vintage coins and memorabilia with fascinating histories
- Unique pre-loved fashion pieces
- Comics, digital art, and NFTs for the technologically inclined collector
More Than Just Shopping
While you can certainly shop to your heart’s content, Collect Fest is really about embracing the full experience. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Workshops and panel discussions led by experts
- Fun activities for the kids, including engaging art classes
- Delicious food options along with live performances
Making the Most of Your Visit
Based on previous events, here are some tips to maximise your Collect Fest experience:
- Research the items you’re interested in beforehand
- Set a spending limit to keep your budget in check
- Engage with the sellers and hear their incredible stories
- Attend a workshop or two to expand your knowledge
- Create a list of must-find items to stay focused amidst the excitement

The Collecting Scene Today
Collecting has come a long way. While many still collect purely out of passion, there’s a growing trend of viewing it as an investment. Younger collectors are infusing the scene with fresh enthusiasm, while seasoned collectors often have the resources to acquire those rare, special pieces.
Whether you’re on the hunt for that elusive item to complete your collection or simply wish to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of fellow enthusiasts, Collect Fest 2025 promises to be an extraordinary event. Will we see you there?