MAKE IT COUNT

Everything you need to put your best entry forward - no guesswork, no stress.

NAIL YOUR VIDEO

1. Find your light

Film somewhere bright - near a window or outside works a treat. Face the light, not away from it, so we can actually see you shine. It's even better if you're in your chef whites.

2. Frame it up

Phone is fine. Prop it at eye level, flip it "horizontal" (landscape), and give yourself a quick check - head and shoulders in frame, kitchen chaos out of it.

3. Speak from the heart

Tell us where you see yourself in 3 years, what inspires you to cook, and the thinking behind your dish. 30 seconds - punchy beats perfect. Tip: write it out beforehand so you don't waste any of your 30 seconds. Your dish idea doesn't need to be fully developed yet. If selected, you'll work with mentors to refine and elevate it throughout the programme.

4. Check it, then send it

Watch it back once. Can we hear you? Can we see you? Good - upload it and you are done.

GETTING YOUR APPLICATION RIGHT

The strongest entries are not the fanciest - they are the realest. Pick a dish that is genuinely yours and tell us why: the memory, the mashup, the moment it clicked. Let your two hero dairy products earn their spot rather than sit in the background. Get your referee sorted early so you are not chasing a letter at 11pm on deadline night. And back yourself - the judges are looking for hunger and heart, not a finished product. That is what the four days in Melbourne are for.

GET INSPIRED BY WINNING DISHES

Check out our 2026 Year Book for more inspiration

GOT QUESTIONS, CHEF?

Who can apply?

You need to be 18 or older by 31 December 2026, and graduating from or have graduated from a recognised cooking or patisserie course in Australia or New Zealand in 2026. Apprentice and non-apprentice students are both welcome.

When do applications close?

Applications open 10 August and close 19 October 2026. There are no extensions, so get your entry in before the deadline.

What do I need to include in my application?

Your details and studies, a referee with a short video or letter of recommendation from your teacher or employer, and your dish - the concept, the story behind it and the two hero dairy products it features. You will also record a short video about your goals and your dish.

How long do I have to prep and cook my dish and how many dishes?

You need to prepare two of the same dish within a 2.5 hour time frame including 30 minutes for prep

Can I save my application and come back to it?

Yes. Create an account and your progress saves as you go, so you can start now and finish whenever suits.

What happens if I am selected as a finalist?

The final 32 head to Melbourne for a four day, all expenses paid culinary adventure with masterclasses, dining experiences and field trips - and the overall winner takes home a $10,000 scholarship. Finalists may be subject to reference checks.

Do I need professional filming equipment for my video?

Not at all. A phone, decent light and 30 honest seconds are all it takes. There are tips on the How to apply page if you want a hand.

Who should my referee be?

A teacher or employer who knows your work and can vouch for you - they will need to provide a short video or letter of recommendation as part of your application.

When will finalists be announced?

Finalists will be announced after judging wraps up. Keep an eye on your inbox and our socials - that is where the news drops first. [Date to be confirmed]