Melbourne Toy Fair 2026 – Sneak Peek: A Playground of Innovation, Nostalgia and Surprises

The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre once again became the beating heart of the toy industry as the Australian Toy Association, together with Cavanagh PR, opened the doors of the 2026 Australian Toy Hobby and Licensing Fair to media, bloggers and influencers for an exclusive preview. For two hours, the trade-only event transformed into a vibrant playground where adults rediscovered their inner child and the future of play unfolded across every aisle… and their children of course! Even with certain sections sealed off due to embargoed products, the areas open to the media offered more than enough colour, creativity and excitement to set the tone for 2026.

The celebration of 10 Years of Ooshies set the mood early, drawing crowds with anniversary editions and nostalgic favourites. Action figure fans were treated to new Sonic the Hedgehog and Justice League lines, while towering oversized Star Wars figures made an immediate impression — not only was the force strong in these toys, but these were definitely the figures we were looking for. LEGO’s new Smart Bricks quickly became one of the most talked-about innovations of our visit, blending sound, motion and storytelling into classic brick play. Watching an X-Wing roar to life with audio effects or Luke and Vader duel with synced sound was enough to make even the most seasoned collectors grin.

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Headstart teased the next wave of Monsterverse figures, MJM Australia showcased puzzles spanning everything from Bluey to classic Star Wars, and Tomson Toys introduced their bouncing plush Bouncibles, which were as chaotic as they were adorable. Charlie Bears warmed hearts with their “Bear & Me” and “Cuddle Clubs” collections, while Squishmallows continued their reign as the plush phenomenon that refuses to slow down. Tonies returned with their next-generation Tonies 2 storytelling devices, and Ikon Collectibles impressed again with statues from Lord of the Rings, Superman and Gremlins — just a few of the standout pieces they were distributing. Funko Pop! fans were spoiled with an enormous display, including a giant Pop! box perfect for photos.

Younger children weren’t forgotten, with Ditty Bird’s products charming families, Fidgimals offering quirky animal and dinosaur fidgets, and Play Nation unveiling their surprisingly adorable Care Bear Bedtime Magnetic Plush Phone Stands. My Creative Box rounded out the educational corner with hands-on creative kits designed to inspire imagination, and two hours was definitely not enough to explore everything the Toy Fair had to offer.

Amid all the tech, collectibles and character brands, one company championed the simple joy of getting outside. Life Is Better Outside brought a refreshing burst of energy with products designed to get kids moving. Their standout was the Gaga CrazyBall Outdoor Game Set, a full steel-framed 10×10 ft Gaga pit that brings the wildly popular camp game straight into the backyard. Fast, physical and endlessly replayable, it felt like the kind of product destined to become a neighbourhood staple. They also showcased the Silent Shot Crossover Ball, a clever indoor hybrid that lets kids practise soccer and basketball without the thumping noise that usually sends parents running — proving that active play doesn’t always need a backyard.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 Australian Toy Hobby and Licensing Fair is an essential destination for exhibitors, buyers and anyone working within the toy trade. With more than 200 exhibitors and thousands of industry professionals expected to attend, the fair continues to be the place where trends are set, partnerships are formed and the next generation of toys makes its debut. This year’s media preview made one thing clear: 2026 and beyond are packed with clever ideas, bold innovations and products that celebrate everything from nostalgia to cutting-edge creativity — and the future of play looks incredibly exciting.

LEGO Friends Autumns Waffle Stand

Sanrio Building Block Me Time Blind Box

Sensory Spud (Squishy)