Since launching more than 60 years ago, thousands of emerging chefs have built skills to help them thrive in modern kitchens through Australia’s longest running culinary competition.

That competition – the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award – has just opened entries for 2026, inviting the next wave of young chefs from Australia and New Zealand to step forward.

The competition sets out to create a pathway for young chefs to gain hands-on experience and build connections within the industry, supported by Nestlé Professional, Australian Culinary Foundation (ACF), and NZChefs.

Nestlé Professional General Manager Kristina Czepl says chef and skill shortages remain one of the industry’s biggest challenges.  

“The Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award gives young chefs the confidence, capability, and connections to thrive and in turn, helps to shape a stronger, more sustainable future for foodservice.” 

Tom Hitchcock, head chef at Sunshine Coast’s award-winning Spirit House and 2017-2018 Golden Chef’s Hat finalist, says competitions like these are game changers for young chefs who are ready to push themselves and take their careers to the next level. 

“This program was a fantastic launchpad for me, and I’m incredibly proud to now give back by mentoring young chefs and encouraging the rising stars of Spirit House to make the most of this unique opportunity.” 

The competition  

Entry is free and open to apprentice and junior chefs aged 18-24. Competitors will have the opportunity to win a share of $28,000 in prizes, with the grand prize including a seven day international culinary trip to Singapore, valued at $10,000.  

Regional and metro cook-offs will run from June to July in Auckland, Grafton, Canberra, Adelaide, Perth, Newcastle, Christchurch, Melbourne, Sydney, Darwin, Launceston, and Brisbane. More than 300 chefs are expected to enter in a bid to secure one of 11 regional finalist spots. 

The Grand Final will be held at Melbourne’s Fine Food Australia in September, where finalists will cook in front of a live audience for the Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year title, with the winner announced at an industry awards dinner.  

Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year 2025 Winner Emily Morgan

The competition goes beyond simply recognising culinary skills. For a third-year running, The Burnt Chef Project returns as a partner, helping young chefs access mental health resources and practical support. 

Nestlé Professional will also continue its work with the National Indigenous Culinary Institute (NICI), which supports mentorship, training, and skills development that create meaningful career pathways for indigenous chefs. 

The 2026 program includes a line-up of returning partners, including Rare Medium (MLA Foodservice Division), Koi Knives, Solidteknics, and Nestlé Professional’s brands Maggi, Buitoni, and Nestlé Docello. 

Entries are now open and close at 11:59pm AEST on May 15 2026. Visit here to find out more.  

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