PAX Family
Bringing Kids to PAX Aus? Welcome!
Bringing the whole family to PAX Aus? You’re in the right place.
Children aged 6 and under are free with an accompanying adult badge.
Attendees aged 14 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
PAX is a big event, and there is a LOT going on. So we’ve put together this handy family guide to help you know what to expect, what to look out for and how to make the most of your PAX Aus 2026 adventure.
So... What is PAX Aus?
If PAX is new to your family, think of it as a giant celebration of games and the people who love them.
There are video games, tabletop games, cosplay, panels, tournaments, creators, artists, hands-on experiences, competitions and plenty of things to discover throughout the show.
You don't need to be a hardcore gamer to enjoy PAX. There are activities for different ages, interests and levels of gaming experience, and you can build your day around the things your family is most excited about.
The best part? You don't have to do everything.
Pick a few things you know your kids will love, leave some room to explore, and see where the day takes you.
Panels & Shows
PAX isn't just about playing games. Our theatres are packed with panels, talks, shows and special events throughout the weekend.
There are plenty of sessions that families can enjoy together, including:
• Multi-Generational Gaming
Gaming is for everyone. This panel explores what happens when different generations pick up the controller and play together.
• Pokémon Spelling Bee
Gotta spell 'em all! Put your Pokémon knowledge to the test in this family-friendly battle of words.
• Dungeons & Dragons for Kids by Young Adventurers League
They run epic Dungeons & Dragons adventures for kids. Sessions are run by professional game masters. No experience is necessary!
• K-Pop Demon Hunters Roleplay
Calling all K-Pop Demon Hunters fans! Get ready for a little cosplay, a little roleplay and a whole lot of fun.
• Cosplay Championship: Kids Catwalk
Think your little one has what it takes to own the runway?
The Kids Catwalk is part of the PAX Aus Cosplay Championship and is a chance for younger cosplayers to show off their creations on stage.
Want to take part?
Head to the Cosplay Lounge during PAX to find out how to sign up.
TIP: Check the schedule before you arrive and highlight a couple of panels or shows your family definitely doesn't want to miss. You can then build the rest of your day around them.
Explore the Expo Hall and eBay Tabletop Hall
Explore the Expo Hall
The Expo Hall and eBay Tabletop Hall is where you'll find many of the amazing games, brands, creators and experiences coming to PAX Aus. Kids can get hands-on with games, discover something completely new, meet creators and see what the gaming world has to offer.
PAX Aus exhibitors will have age ratings and classifications displayed at their booths, so please check these before allowing your children to participate. Note: These are just a few of the child-friendly PG or less options available within the Expo Hall and eBay Tabletop Hall.
- Get competitive with Nintendo Switch Sports Resort, experience an exclusive Pikmin Bloom event on the Nintendo booth and check out a demo for Pokemon Pokopia Expansion Pass!
- Mwave is bringing a sandpit and remote-controlled excavator to the PAX Aus show floor where attendees can dig for prizes.
- Aftershock PC has new PC designs, playable games, cosplayers and a racing simulator.
- Lexus is bringing a virtual replica Lexus racing simulator alongside one of the rarest vehicles ever made.
- Join Learn to Plays and Collection Quests on Disney Lorcana's booth. Click here to pre-book sessions.
- Magic: The Gathering will be hosting a Learn to Play area with their new Reality Fracture set, alongside guest artist meet & greets.
- Get hands-on with asmodee with a demo of LEGO NINJAGO or K-pop Demon Hunters: Battle for the Spotlight card games.
- Hit up Bandai Card Games for a Learn to Play of their One Piece or Digimon Card Games.
Checking our family-friendly exhibitor guide for more!
Yes, THERE'S MORE!
Gaming at PAX comes in many forms.
If your family isn't all about video games, there's still plenty to explore.
eBay Tabletop Hall
Try a new board game, card game or tabletop experience. Many exhibitors offer learn-to-play sessions, so you don't need to arrive knowing the rules.
Cosplay Land
See incredible costumes throughout the show, visit the Cosplay Lounge and check out the Cosplay Championship.
Feeling inspired? Your family can even join in.
Aus Indie Showcase
Discover the next big thing before everyone else does. PAX Rising showcases independent games and the creators behind them.
Tournaments
Cheer on players, watch competitive gaming and see some seriously impressive skills in action.
Handheld Lounge
The PAX Handheld Lounge is an excellent place to take a break, relax your tired feet, and lounge around. Oh, and you can also play handheld games there. The Handheld Lounge is powered by Sandisk.
Classic Gaming
From the Atari 2600 to the Sony PlayStation and everything in between, you'll find just about everyone's childhood in Classic Gaming.
A few things to know before you arrive
PAX Aus is a big event. There will be crowds, loud noises, flashing screens, lots of people and a LOT of things happening at once.
For some kids, that's the best thing ever. For others, it can be a little overwhelming.
That's completely okay.
The trick to a great family PAX is knowing when to go go go and when to take five.
Take a break
If things are getting a little too much, step away from the action. Our family-friendly seating areas located along the Concourse provide somewhere to take a breather, recharge and regroup before heading back into the fun. Or our AFK Room supported by Beyond Blue and the Inclusivity Project provides a low-sensory respite for those feeling overwhelmed by the show floor.
Parents' Room & Changing Places Facilities
Need somewhere to feed, change or settle the little one? A Parents' Room and changing facilities are available at the venue. There are also toilets located throughout the venue.
Food & Drinks
All that gaming is hungry work.
There will be food and drink options available at PAX Aus, including family meal deals.
We recommend planning a lunch or snack break into your day rather than waiting until everyone is running on empty. And yes, snacks are absolutely encouraged.
Pram Parking
Every area of PAX Aus is accessible with a pram, with the exception of the Expo Hall.
With the high numbers of attendees and activations spread across the Expo Hall, prams aren't permitted in this space to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone. Prams are allowed in the Tabletop area as there is higher lighting in the space and a large portion of people in the space are sitting at tables.
Pram Parking is available in the Convention Centre. Pram parking is a complimentary service managed by MCEC venue staff and will be operational from 9:30am – 7:00pm each day of the event.
Make A Plan
Our biggest piece of advice for families coming to PAX for the first time: Don't try to do everything. You can't. We know. We've tried.
Instead, pick two or three things your family really wants to do and use those as the anchors for your day. Add these to your schedule in the PAX Aus mobile app (it also has a map!), then leave yourself some time to wander.
What should we bring?
A little preparation goes a long way.
We recommend bringing:
🎟️ Your PAX badges
You'll need these to enter the event, so be sure everyone in your group has theirs before you leave home.
💧 Water
Keep everyone hydrated throughout the day.
🍎 Snacks
Because "I'm hungry" has incredible timing.
👟 Comfortable shoes
You're probably going to walk a lot.
🎧 Ear protection
Useful for younger children or anyone who finds busy, noisy environments overwhelming.
🧥 Layers
You'll be moving between different areas of a busy venue, so layers can make things more comfortable.
🔋 A charged phone
Useful for checking the schedule, finding your group, and taking approximately 900 photos of cosplay.
🗺️ A game plan
Take a look at the schedule before you arrive so you don't miss your must-see activities.
📍 A meeting point
Choose an easy-to-find spot in case your group gets separated.
✨ Your sense of adventure
There is a lot to discover. Wander, explore, and have fun!
That's it. You're ready.
What about cosplay?
PAX is a place where people love dressing up, and you'll see all sorts of incredible costumes around the show.
Some costumes may be scary, spooky or contain realistic-looking weapons and props.
If your child is easily frightened, it's worth preparing them for this before you arrive.
You can also take a break from the crowds and costumes whenever you need to.
And if your family wants to cosplay too...
DO IT!
There is no age limit on having an excellent costume.
Most importantly: have fun!
PAX can be big, busy and a little bit bonkers.
You don't need to see everything. You don't need to know every game. And you definitely don't need to be a gaming expert.
Come along, explore at your own pace and find the things your family loves.
Your first PAX might be the day your kid discovers their new favourite game, tries tabletop for the first time, meets a creator they love or decides they're absolutely going to be a professional cosplayer when they grow up.
Whatever your family's PAX looks like, we can't wait to see you there.