The winner of the 2025 season of Dancing With The Stars Australia was announced on March 25, 2025, during an electrifying finale that showcased the talents of six celebrity contestants. After eight weeks filled with captivating performances, glittering costumes, and dramatic moments, the competition culminated in a showdown between Kyle Shilling, Shaun Micallef, and four other finalists: Brittany Hockley, Felicity Ward, Michael Usher, and Trent Cotchin.
In a nail-biting conclusion, the final results revealed that Shilling and Micallef had emerged as the top two contestants. Following a public vote, hosts Sonia Kruger and Dr. Chris Brown declared Kyle Shilling and his partner, Lily Cornish, the champions of this season. “I’m feeling mixed emotions, as it’s come to an end,” Shilling remarked. “We built such a strong family here, and it’s amazing to stand here and hold this trophy, knowing all the hard work we put in has paid off.”
This victory marks Lily Cornish’s second win on the show, having previously claimed the mirrorball trophy with Grant Denyer in 2022.
Kyle Shilling’s Standout Performance
Throughout the season, Shilling consistently impressed both judges and audiences. He achieved a perfect score of 40 during the third week of the competition and received high praise for his freestyle performance in the finale. This routine paid homage to his First Nation’s culture, which the judges hailed as “exceptional.” Judge Helen Richey expressed her admiration, stating, “I thought it was just so beautiful. It touched me like that, so thank you.”
The grand finale performance underscored not just Shilling’s dancing ability but also his commitment to cultural representation. His achievement resonates deeply, particularly in a year where the arts continue to play a vital role in fostering community and understanding.
Charitable Impact and Contestant Earnings
As is customary in similar star-studded reality shows, the winners of Dancing With The Stars have the opportunity to raise funds for their chosen charities. With Shilling’s victory, contributions will go towards the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, which supports access to books and literacy programs for Indigenous children across Australia, ensuring they receive a proper education.
Reports suggest that Kyle Shilling was compensated approximately $27,000 AUD for participating in the competition. This figure is notably lower than his fellow contestants, including Rebecca Gibney, Osher Günsberg, and Micallef, who were rumored to have earned around $100,000 AUD each for their appearances on the show.
The finale not only highlighted the entertainment value of the competition but also underscored the importance of charity and cultural representation in contemporary media. As viewers celebrate Shilling’s victory, the impact of his win will reach far beyond the dance floor.
