Australian Culinary Federation and Nestlé Professional Launch 2026 Young Chef Scholarships
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The Australian Culinary Federation (ACF), in partnership with Nestlé Professional, the opening of applications for a new opportunity, the Nestlé Professional Young Chef Scholarships, a dedicated initiative to support and uplift emerging culinary talent across Australia.
Designed to empower the next generation of chefs within the foodservice industry, the scholarship program offers two awards valued at $4,000 each. One scholarship recognises excellence on merit, celebrating exceptional skill, creativity and professional commitment. The second is awarded on an equity basis, supporting young chefs who may face financial or personal barriers in pursuing their culinary careers.
Both recipients will benefit from financial support to advance their training, purchase essential equipment, attend professional development opportunities or help cover competition costs. In addition, recipients will receive industry mentorship, national recognition across media and ACF/Nestlé Professional channels, and ongoing profiling within the culinary community.
Eligibility is open to young chefs under 25 years of age who are currently working or studying in the Australian foodservice sector and are Australian citizens or permanent residents. Successful applicants will also have access to mentorship from respected industry leaders.
Applications open on 2 February 2026 and close on 16 March 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview, with winners notified in April.
This scholarship initiative reflects ACF and Nestlé Professional’s shared commitment to nurturing talent, fostering opportunity and fostering the future of Australia’s culinary leadership.
