The search for Australia and New Zealand’s top young culinary talent begins as career-shaping competition enters its seventh decade.
With kitchens under pressure and skilled chefs in high demand, celebrating and supporting emerging talent has never been more important. Nestlé Professional has opened applications for the 2026 Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award, inviting the next wave of young chefs from New Zealand and Australia to step forward.
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 Nestlé Professional, NZChefs and Australian Culinary Foundation (ACF).
“Chef and skill shortages remain one of our 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,” said Nestlé Professional General Manager, Kristina Czepl.
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.
Winner of the 2025 competition, Emily Morgan from Auckland, said the experience was instrumental in accelerating her career.
“Winning the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award opened doors I wouldn’t have had otherwise. It pushed me to refine my skills, think creatively under pressure, and connect with others in the industry. I’d encourage any young chef to enter, the experience you gain is invaluable.”
The search for this year’s Golden Chef begins
Founded in 1965, the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award is Australia’s longest-running culinary competition. Entry is free and open to apprentice and junior chefs aged 18–24 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.
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.
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 prestigious title of Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year, with the winner announced at an Industry Awards Dinner.
Legacy programme enters new chapter of fostering culinary talent
The Nestlé Golden Chef’s 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.
Nestlé 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.
The 2026 programme is proudly backed by a strong line‑up of returning partners, including Rare Medium (MLA Foodservice Division), Koi Knives, Solidteknics, and Nestlé Professional’s leading brands Maggi, Buitoni and Nestlé Docello. It is with their support and expertise that the competition can continue to champion the industry’s talented young chefs and provide career-shaping opportunities.
Entries for the 2026 Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award are now open and close at 11:59pm AEST on 15 May 2026.
For more information or to apply online, visit https://www.goldenchefs.com.au/
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