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Perth Australia's Next Top Model finalists Kaitlyn Bennett and Jess ThomasPicture: Danella Bevis / The West Australian.

[|T] hey are vying for the chance to become Australia’s Next Top Model but two [|WA] beauties are determined to do it the healthy way.

As part of the FOX8 reality series’ top 12, fresh faces [|Jess Thomas] and [|Kaitlyn Bennett] have entered the industry at a time when an international debate is raging on the wellbeing of models, with France recently passing legislation banning “excessively skinny” talent from the catwalk.

Thomas said she viewed the controversy in a positive light as it placed a higher priority on the health of young models.

“When it comes to models being too skinny, if you have a naturally small frame then I don’t see an issue with that,” the 22-year-old explained to [|AAA Weekend] .

“But if you have an unhealthy lifestyle or eating habits then I think that is an issue. You need to be a good role model and definitely in this day and age there is much more emphasis on being healthy. I think it’s a good thing that France is getting in on that and saying it’s not OK to treat your body badly.”

Bennett, 19, added: “I think you should just be able to eat whatever you want and not worry about it.”

The duo will have some powerful mentors to guide them on ANTM this season after it was announced the show would feature powerhouse guest judges including Victoria’s Secret Angel [|Alessandra Ambrosio] , supermodel [|Linda Evangelista] and [|Kelly Osbourne] . But it’s homegrown success stories such as [|Gemma Ward] and [|Nicole Trunfio] who inspire Thomas and Bennett most.

“Gemma Ward is definitely someone I look up to,” Thomas said. “Starting at such a young age and doing what she has done is incredible. It really does inspire you that someone from Perth can pursue that kind of career.”

“I also want to do high fashion, that’s my dream. I want to walk for some of the most amazing designers in the world.”

Australia’s Next Top Model kicks off on Thursday at 5.30pm on FOX8.