Formed by chefs, for chefs.
WELCOME TO AUSTRALIA'S PREMIER CHEF COMMUNITY
Australian Culinary Federation represents a vibrant network of professional chefs, cooks, apprentices, and culinary students from across Australia. Join our community today and connect with the heart of the nation's food industry.
2025 BLACK HAT RECIPIENT
Chef Dale Lyman Awarded the Sidney Taylor Memorial Black Hat
share what you know and respect the craft
The Australian Culinary Federation Victoria is proud to announce Chef Dale Lyman as the 2024 recipient of the Sidney Taylor Memorial Black Hat, one of the highest honours in Australian professional cookery.
The award was presented by the Australian Culinary Federation at the collaborative Christmas Cocktail event delivered with Les Toques Blanches Victoria, the Asian Chef Club, Chaine des Rôtisseurs and the Australian Institute of Technical Chefs, hosted at Le Méridien Melbourne.
Established in 1990, the Black Hat recognises chefs who have made a significant and sustained contribution to the advancement and professionalism of Australian cookery. Recipients must demonstrate leadership, integrity, enthusiasm and at least a decade of meaningful industry service.
About Chef Dale Lyman
Chef Dale Lyman is known for his skill, generosity and deep respect for the craft. Influenced early by his family’s love of food, tradition and workmanship, Dale built a career shaped by passion and purpose.
His philosophy is simple: share what you know and respect the craft. Dale has mentored emerging chefs, supported community initiatives and contributed to the growth of the industry for many years.
The Australian Culinary Federation Victoria congratulates Chef Dale Lyman on this well-deserved honour.
ACCESS MEMBER PORTAL
Exclusive Member Benefits
This is your go-to space for exclusive ACF member benefits. From tools and uniforms to news and discounts — it’s all here to support your career.
Insurance
Preferential insurance rates tailored for hospitality professionals, available exclusively to ACF members.
Uniforms
Access to premium chef jackets, embroidered logos, discounted footwear, and 10% off hospitality wear from trusted Australian suppliers.
Tools
Member discounts on quality knives, tools, and kitchen essentials built for performance, longevity, and everyday use.
Industry Updates
Stay informed with the latest industry news, trends, competitions, and professional opportunities delivered straight to your member portal.
Learn, Grow, Succeed
Online Courses for Food Professionals
Expand your skills with our Build your expertise with our library of online courses, created specifically for chefs and foodservice professionals. Accessible anytime, anywhere, these courses provide practical skills to support your growth and success in the industry.
PROUDLY LINKED TO WORLDCHEFS
As a member of the Australian Culinary Federation, you’re also part of a global community through WorldChefs. This connection gives you access to international networking, education, and career opportunities, ensuring Australian chefs stay at the forefront of the industry. Together, we celebrate skills, innovation, and the future of food—both here and around the world.
WHO WE ARE
As the premier industry organisation, we proudly represent professional Chefs, Cooks, Young Chefs, Apprentices, and Culinary Students, prioritising their needs and aspirations across all areas of the cooking and hospitality sectors.
At the heart of our mission lies a steadfast commitment to supporting our members and fostering their professional growth. Through a range of tailored initiatives, we provide specific member support, including workshops led by industry professionals, personalised mentoring programmes, online learning hub and resources focused on mental health awareness, social responsibility, and sustainability. Our goal is to equip our members with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel in their careers and contribute positively to the culinary community.
In addition to providing member support, we also actively participate in and provide guidance on the establishment, maintenance, and enhancement of national and international Culinary Competitions. These competitions, aligned with the benchmark standards set by the World Association of Chef’s Societies (WACS), offer our members valuable opportunities for growth, recognition, and skill development.
Beyond professional growth, we foster a sense of unity and inclusivity among our members. Through various channels including social media platforms, workshops, professional functions, and meetings, we provide opportunities for social and professional networking, ensuring that all individuals feel valued, respected, and embraced regardless of gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, or religious beliefs.
At the Australian Culinary Federation, our members are at the heart of everything we do.
The values we live by
We champion honesty, trust, and inclusivity, dedicated to protecting and elevating Australia's culinary profession.
Honesty
Upholding transparency and integrity in all our interactions.
Trust
Building reliable and dependable relationships within the culinary community.
Inclusivity
We are committed to creating a culinary community where diversity is celebrated and everyone, no matter their background, has an opportunity to thrive.
Protection
Safeguarding the standards and well-being of our profession.
What We Do..
Our members are at the forefront of everything we do. We’re dedicated to continually enhancing their experience and providing valuable resources. Take a look at some of the initiatives we’ve implemented to support our members
How We Do It..
Our Association is a committed pillar of support and recognition for chefs across Australia, valuing their diverse backgrounds and varying levels of expertise.
Our mission remains clear: To support, empower, and celebrate the diverse talents within the culinary community.
BECOME A SUPPORTER
Brand Exposure
Partnering with the Australian Culinary Federation offers increased visibility and exposure to a broad and diverse national audience of chefs, cooks and culinary professionals, boosting brand recognition and credibility within the industry.
Targeted Marketing
Gain access to targeted marketing opportunities through sponsorship packages, events, and digital platforms, allowing partners to effectively reach and engage with their desired audience segments.
Networking and Collaboration
Access exclusive networking events, workshops, and industry gatherings, providing partners with valuable opportunities to connect, collaborate, and build relationships with key stakeholders and decision-makers in the culinary community.
Thought Leadership
Position your brand as a leader and innovator in the culinary industry by aligning with the Australian Culinary Federation's initiatives, programs, and advocacy efforts, demonstrating commitment to excellence and advancement within the field.
TESTIMONIALS
Proudly Supported By
Our Industry Partners are the lifeblood of our association. With their support, we deliver ongoing value to our members.
