2027 NESTLÉ PROFESSIONAL
YOUNG CHEF SCHOLARSHIPS
Two $4,000 scholarships for chefs under 25
Applications open Monday 16 November 2026 and close Friday 5 February 2027, 11:59pm AEDT.
ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIPS
Supporting talent, opportunity and future leadership in Australian foodservice.
The Nestlé Professional Young Chef Scholarships support the next generation of Australian foodservice talent. Delivered in partnership with the Australian Culinary Federation (ACF), they give two young chefs under 25 $4,000 each and national industry recognition.
Each scholarship is worth $4,000. One is awarded on merit, recognising skill, commitment and potential. The other is awarded on equity, supporting a young chef facing financial, social or personal barriers. You can apply for both, but you can be awarded only one.
Merit Scholarship
This scholarship recognises skill, commitment and potential in the kitchen. It is awarded to a young chef who has demonstrated strong technical ability, initiative and a clear commitment to building a career in Australian foodservice.
Equity Scholarship
This scholarship supports young chefs who may face financial or personal barriers that limit access to opportunity. It recognises determination, resilience and a commitment to progressing a career in Australian foodservice.
SCHOLARSHIP VALUE
Each scholarship recipient will receive:
• $4,000 for training, equipment, professional development or competition costs
Professional recognition includes:
• A feature in a national media release to hospitality and foodservice trade publications
• A spotlight across ACF and Nestlé Professional social channels and the ACF website
• Profiling through ACF newsletters, partner communications and industry updates
• Recipient details shared with WorldChefs
ELIGIBILITY
Criteria
• Be under 25 years of age as at 31 December 2027 (born on or after 1 January 2003)
• Be currently working or studying in the Australian foodservice sector
• Be a member of the Australian Culinary Federation (ACF), or willing to become a member if selected
• Be available for an online interview between Monday 15 and Tuesday 23 February 2027
• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
Additional criteria for the Equity Scholarship
• Provide a short statement outlining the financial, social or personal barriers affecting your career. It stays confidential to the selection panel.
KEY DATES
- Applications open: Monday 16 November 2026
- Applications close: Friday 5 February 2027, 11:59pm AEDT
- Shortlisted applicants notified: Wednesday 10 February 2027
- Online interviews: Monday 15 to Tuesday 23 February 2027
- Recipients contacted: Thursday 25 February 2027
- Recipients announced: Monday 1 March 2027, across ACF and Nestlé Professional channels and EDM
HOW TO APPLY
How to apply
• Applications are submitted online via the Australian Culinary Federation website
• Applicants will be required to upload supporting documents and provide detailed responses
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview
• For further information, contact marketing@austculinary.com.au
APPLICATION PROCESS
Step 1: Online Application Submission
Candidates must complete an online application form, including:
- Personal details and career background
- A written response on why they should be considered to receive the scholarship
- Supporting documents (CV, references, portfolio of work, etc.)
Merit Scholarship Applicants:
- Must provide details of professional achievements, awards, or competitions entered
- Showcase leadership and innovation in their approach to food
Equity Scholarship Applicants:
- Must outline challenges faced and how the scholarship would make a difference
- Highlight determination and passion for a career in food
Step 2: Interview Selection
Shortlisted applicants will be told by Wednesday 10 February 2027 and invited to an online interview, held between Monday 15 and Tuesday 23 February 2027, with a panel of industry professionals, including representatives from the Australian Culinary Federation and Nestlé Professional. This session will assess:
- Technical knowledge and passion
- Future career goals
- Personal drive and commitment
Step 3: Announcement of Recipients
Recipients will be contacted on Thursday 25 February 2027 and announced publicly on Monday 1 March 2027 across ACF and Nestlé Professional channels, the ACF website and EDM. They will also be featured in industry communications.
Proudly Sponsored by Nestlé Professional
The Nestlé Professional Young Chef Scholarships are part of our commitment to fostering the next generation of industry leaders. We believe in providing opportunities that help young chefs grow, thrive, and make an impact in the food industry.