ARE YOU PART OF THE NEXT CHEF MOVEMENT?
The Australian Culinary Federation (ACF) competitions are the platform for our country’s most creative chefs, apprentices, and foodservice professionals to showcase their skills, creativity, and passion for food. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just commencing your career in the food industry, our industry competitions offer a unique opportunity to empower yourself, reach your personal goals, and connect with peers who share your passion for all things food.
COMPETITION SCHEDULE
2025 NATIONAL APPRENTICES COMPETITION
The NAC is the pinnacle of apprentice competitions across Australia, culminating in the final event hosted at Fine Food in Melbourne this September. Throughout the year, top apprentices and culinary students from each state and territory compete in their respective regions. The best from each apprenticeship year and student section are selected to converge and vie for the title of overall winner. The NAC’s reach is extensive, impacting over 4,000 culinary students and educators and linking to more than 10,000 chefs nationwide. State selections for the top four apprentices/students from each category will commence in May. For more details about the competition in your state, contact your Regional Chairman of Judges.
2025 SECONDARY SCHOOLS CULINARY CHALLENGE
In 2025, the ACF will continue to inspire future culinary talent through the Secondary School Culinary Competitions held across all regions. This initiative aims to strengthen the connection between schools and the commercial cookery industry, encouraging more students to embark on culinary careers. The competition is open to senior secondary students in years 10-12 who are studying Home Economics or Hospitality. The national champions will experience an incredible reward – to be announced shortly.
2025 RESTAURANT CHALLENGE
Foodservice Australia Melbourne
Gather your team and gear up for the 2025 Restaurant Challenge! Open to all professional chefs, this competition is a fantastic way to empower your kitchen team or industry peers to showcase your skills and have some fun.
NESTLE GOLDEN CHEFS HAT
Are you ready to make a name for yourself? Simply enter the Golden Chef’s competition by completing the online entry form.
2025 CULINARY CHALLENGE
Fine Food Australia 8-11 September at ICC Sydney
Are you ready to put your culinary skills to the ultimate test? The 2025 Culinary Challenge is your chance to compete with the best in the industry on a prestigious stage that celebrates talent, creativity, and excellence.
This high-energy competition offers more than just bragging rights—it’s your opportunity to earn recognition, prizes, and professional acclaim. Participants will go head-to-head under pressure, showcasing their abilities in front of a live audience and a panel of distinguished judges accredited by the Australian Culinary Federation (ACF).
This year’s exciting lineup includes:
• ACF National Apprentice Competition
• ACF Most Outstanding Chef
• ACF Team Challenges
• Nestlé Golden Chefs Hat Award Final Series
and many more thrilling events!
Proudly presented by the Australian Culinary Federation and ACF NSW ACT & Regions, this event is dedicated to promoting culinary excellence and providing a world-class competitive environment for chefs at every stage of their journey.
Whether you’re just starting out or already a seasoned competitor, this is your moment to shine. Show the world your passion, precision, and innovation in a setting that celebrates the very best of the culinary arts.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of Australia’s most prestigious culinary showcases. Step up to the plate—we can’t wait to see you in action!