Formed by chefs, for chefs.
WELCOME TO AUSTRALIA'S PREMIER CHEF COMMUNITY
Australian Culinary Federation represents a vibrant network of professional chefs, cooks, apprentices, and culinary students from across Australia. Join our community today and connect with the heart of the nation's food industry.
Learn, Grow, Succeed
Online Courses for Food Professionals
Expand your skills with our Build your expertise with our library of online courses, created specifically for chefs and foodservice professionals. Accessible anytime, anywhere, these courses provide practical skills to support your growth and success in the industry.
PROUDLY LINKED TO WORLDCHEFS
As a member of the Australian Culinary Federation, you’re also part of a global community through WorldChefs. This connection gives you access to international networking, education, and career opportunities, ensuring Australian chefs stay at the forefront of the industry. Together, we celebrate skills, innovation, and the future of food—both here and around the world.
Vic Young Chefs: Cuvee Chocolate Masterclass
Join chocolatier Deniz Karaca and wife Kylie for an exclusive evening at the Cuvee Chocolate Factory in Carrum Downs. Learn about cocoa butter pressing, chocolate making, and taste Cuvee’s signature range.
Free event for chefs under 25. Limited to 18 guests.
2025 Queen Restaurant Challenge - WorldChefs Endorsed
Gear up for a showcase of culinary skill and teamwork at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre during Foodservice Australia 2025. Event Details:
This exciting event hosts the Australian Culinary Federation’s 2025 Restaurant Challenge, proudly sponsored by Queen Professional.
This competition is officially endorsed by Worldchefs, recognising excellence in global foodservice standards.
Dates: 19 & 20 May 2025
Location: Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre
National Secondary Schools Culinary Challenge (NSSCC)
Aspiring young chefs, this is your chance! The Australian Culinary Federation hosts a thrilling cooking competition for Years 10-12 Hospitality and Commercial Cookery students. Compete in your state, sharpen your skills, and connect with industry professionals.
Winners advance to the National Final!
đź”— ENTER NOW
ACF Apprentice & Student Competition
Each year, the Australian Culinary Federation hosts a state-by-state cooking competition for apprentices and culinary students across Australia. It’s a hands-on opportunity to refine skills, gain industry exposure, and connect with chefs and mentors. Categories: Winners progress to the National Final.
• 1st Year Apprentice
• 2nd Year Apprentice
• Final Year Apprentice
• Culinary Student
NEWS & EVENTS
WHO WE ARE
As the premier industry organisation, we proudly represent professional Chefs, Cooks, Young Chefs, Apprentices, and Culinary Students, prioritising their needs and aspirations across all areas of the cooking and hospitality sectors.
At the heart of our mission lies a steadfast commitment to supporting our members and fostering their professional growth. Through a range of tailored initiatives, we provide specific member support, including workshops led by industry professionals, personalised mentoring programmes, online learning hub and resources focused on mental health awareness, social responsibility, and sustainability. Our goal is to equip our members with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel in their careers and contribute positively to the culinary community.
In addition to providing member support, we also actively participate in and provide guidance on the establishment, maintenance, and enhancement of national and international Culinary Competitions. These competitions, aligned with the benchmark standards set by the World Association of Chef’s Societies (WACS), offer our members valuable opportunities for growth, recognition, and skill development.
Beyond professional growth, we foster a sense of unity and inclusivity among our members. Through various channels including social media platforms, workshops, professional functions, and meetings, we provide opportunities for social and professional networking, ensuring that all individuals feel valued, respected, and embraced regardless of gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, or religious beliefs.
At the Australian Culinary Federation, our members are at the heart of everything we do.Â
The values we live by
We champion honesty, trust, and inclusivity, dedicated to protecting and elevating Australia's culinary profession.
Honesty
Upholding transparency and integrity in all our interactions.
Trust
Building reliable and dependable relationships within the culinary community.
Inclusivity
We are committed to creating a culinary community where diversity is celebrated and everyone, no matter their background, has an opportunity to thrive.
Protection
Safeguarding the standards and well-being of our profession.
What We Do..
Our members are at the forefront of everything we do. We’re dedicated to continually enhancing their experience and providing valuable resources. Take a look at some of the initiatives we’ve implemented to support our members
How We Do It..
 Our Association is a committed pillar of support and recognition for chefs across Australia, valuing their diverse backgrounds and varying levels of expertise.
Our mission remains clear: To support, empower, and celebrate the diverse talents within the culinary community.
BECOME A SUPPORTER
Brand Exposure
Partnering with the Australian Culinary Federation offers increased visibility and exposure to a broad and diverse national audience of chefs, cooks and culinary professionals, boosting brand recognition and credibility within the industry.
Targeted Marketing
Gain access to targeted marketing opportunities through sponsorship packages, events, and digital platforms, allowing partners to effectively reach and engage with their desired audience segments.
Networking and Collaboration
Access exclusive networking events, workshops, and industry gatherings, providing partners with valuable opportunities to connect, collaborate, and build relationships with key stakeholders and decision-makers in the culinary community.
Thought Leadership
Position your brand as a leader and innovator in the culinary industry by aligning with the Australian Culinary Federation's initiatives, programs, and advocacy efforts, demonstrating commitment to excellence and advancement within the field.
Calendar of Events
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TAS: Secondary Schools Culinary Challenge
TAS: Secondary Schools Culinary Challenge
Tasmania Tuesday 6th May Venue TBC Convenor Michael Norton 0448 807 302
Australian Culinary Federation Queensland South (ACFQS) Invitation to May Members’ Evening Meeting & Networking Event
Australian Culinary Federation Queensland South (ACFQS) Invitation to May Members’ Evening Meeting & Networking Event
REGISTER Dear Members and Guests, You are warmly invited to attend the May ACFQS Members' Evening Meeting and Networking Event. Following the success of last month’s lunch, we’re returning to the Rose […]
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Foodservice Australia 2025
Your chance to discover new ideas for your business If you work in the food or hospitality industry then you should be planning a visit to Foodservice Australia. Why? Because […]
May 2025 ACF Regional Judges Workshop
May 2025 ACF Regional Judges Workshop
Register Today! Two hour training session to prepare you to judge ACF competitions at a Junior and Regional level. This workshop is the first step in our judging program & […]
Victoria Young Chefs: Monthly Meetings
Victoria Young Chefs: Monthly Meetings
Lock in the 3rd Sunday of every month at 5:30 pm – your seat at the table is waiting.Meet, share ideas, and grow together.đź“Ť VIC Young Chef Meetings | 2025📧 […]
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2025 Queen Restaurant Challenge
Teams will have the opportunity to pit their skills against each other and against the clock, competing for a share of the cash and prizes. A total of eight (8) […]
NSW ACT & Regions: Griffith: Food Study Tour
Griffith Food Study Tour 🗓️ 19–21 May 2025 | 🚍 Tour departs daily from Quest Hotel Griffith | 👩‍🍳 An immersive, hands-on learning experience Griffith isn’t just a regional town—it’s […]
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QLD South: National Apprentices Competition Dates
QLD South: National Apprentices Competition Dates
South Queensland Date: Saturday 24th May Venue: TAFE Queensland 66 Ernest St. Southbank Convenor:Danny Ward Contact:0412 388 116
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VIC Young Chefs: Competition Masterclass – Andrew Ballard
VIC Young Chefs: Competition Masterclass – Andrew Ballard
Register Today Event description ACF Victoria -Â Competition Ready: Masterclass with Andrew Ballard A 3-hour session of experienced advice, planning tools and behind-the-scenes insights Join us for an exclusive Young Chef […]
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TESTIMONIALS
Proudly Supported By
Our Industry Partners are the lifeblood of our association. With their support, we deliver ongoing value to our members.
