The search for Australia and New Zealand\u2019s top young culinary talent begins as career-shaping competition enters its seventh decade.<\/p>\n
With kitchens under pressure and skilled chefs in high demand, celebrating and supporting emerging talent has never been more important. Nestl\u00e9 Professional has opened applications for the 2026 Nestl\u00e9 Golden Chef\u2019s Hat Award, inviting the next wave of young chefs from New Zealand and Australia to step forward.<\/p>\n
Since its launch over 60 years ago, the programme has helped more than 8,000 emerging chefs build the skills required to thrive in modern foodservice. The competition remains a proven pathway for young chefs to gain hands-on experience and build connections within the industry, supported by Nestl\u00e9 Professional, NZChefs and Australian Culinary Foundation (ACF).<\/p>\n
\u201cChef and skill shortages remain one of our industry\u2019s biggest challenges. The Nestl\u00e9 Golden Chef\u2019s 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,\u201d said Nestl\u00e9 Professional General Manager, Kristina Czepl.<\/p>\n
The competition has evolved to meet the needs of those entering the industry, producing celebrated alumni who have gone on to own businesses, advance culinary innovation and lead renowned establishments across the world.<\/p>\n
Winner of the 2025 competition, Emily Morgan from Auckland, said the experience was instrumental in accelerating her career.<\/p>\n
\u201cWinning the Nestl\u00e9 Golden Chef\u2019s Hat Award opened doors I wouldn\u2019t have had otherwise. It pushed me to refine my skills, think creatively under pressure, and connect with others in the industry. I\u2019d encourage any young chef to enter, the experience you gain is invaluable.\u201d<\/p>\n
The search for this year\u2019s Golden Chef begins<\/p>\n
Founded in 1965, the Nestl\u00e9 Golden Chef\u2019s Hat Award is Australia\u2019s longest-running culinary competition. Entry is free and open to apprentice and junior chefs aged 18\u201324 across New Zealand and Australia. Emerging talent will be given the chance to win their share of AUD 28,000 in prizes, with the grand prize including an incredible 7-day international culinary trip to Singapore, valued at AUD 10,000.<\/p>\n
Regional and metro cook-offs will run from June to July, with more than 300 chefs expected to enter in hopes of securing one of 11 regional finalist spots.<\/p>\n
The Grand Final will be held at Melbourne\u2019s Fine Food Australia in September, where finalists will cook in front of a live audience for the prestigious title of Nestl\u00e9 Golden Chef of the Year, with the winner announced at an Industry Awards Dinner.<\/p>\n
Legacy programme enters new chapter of fostering culinary talent<\/p>\n
The Nestl\u00e9 Golden Chef\u2019s Hat Award goes beyond recognising culinary skills, with wellbeing and inclusion core to the competition. For a third-year running, its partnership with The Burnt Chef Project will provide young chefs with access to mental health resources and practical support.<\/p>\n
Nestl\u00e9 Professional will also continue its work with the National Indigenous Culinary Institute (NICI), supporting mentorship, training and skills development that create meaningful career pathways for Indigenous chefs.<\/p>\n
The 2026 programme is proudly backed by a strong line\u2011up of returning partners, including Rare Medium (MLA Foodservice Division), Koi Knives, Solidteknics, and Nestl\u00e9 Professional\u2019s leading brands Maggi, Buitoni and Nestl\u00e9 Docello. It is with their support and expertise that the competition can continue to champion the industry\u2019s talented young chefs and provide career-shaping opportunities.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Entries for the 2026 Nestl\u00e9 Golden Chef\u2019s Hat Award are now open and close at 11:59pm AEST on 15 May 2026.<\/p>\n
For more information or to apply online, visit https:\/\/www.goldenchefs.com.au\/<\/a><\/p>\n