As we reflect on 2025, we’re filled with pride and gratitude for what we’ve accomplished together. This year has been defined by our commitment to elevating the culinary profession, supporting our members, and giving back to the community. Here’s a glimpse at the milestones we’ve achieved, side by side with chefs who share our passion for excellence and compassion.
Shaping the Future of Our Profession
Strategic Workforce Advisory Group
We’ve been honoured to work alongside dedicated professionals as part of our Strategic Workforce Advisory Group (SWAG). Together, we’ve provided crucial advisory support on the needs of chefs in commercial cookery and aged care, focusing on creating better work environments and increasing retention. Our members have shared their substantial knowledge and experience to help shape the workforce of tomorrow—because every chef deserves a sustainable, fulfilling career.
Advocacy for Professional Recognition
This year, we successfully submitted a comprehensive proposal to ANZSCO advocating for the formal recognition of the Senior Chef role (161631). Our detailed job descriptions and specifications ensure that Executive Chefs, Head Chefs, and Sous Chefs receive the professional acknowledgment they deserve. This work represents a significant step forward in elevating the status of culinary professionals across Australia.
Advancing Culinary Education Standards
We’ve collaborated closely with SaSCA on the review of culinary qualifications and the new training package for commercial cookery. By lending our voice and expertise, we’re helping to ensure that training standards reflect the real-world needs of working chefs and prepare the next generation for success in our dynamic industry.
Empowering Our Members
New Website and Member Benefits Portal
We’re thrilled to announce the relaunch and completion of our new website at technicalchef.com! Our enhanced Member Benefits Portal now provides seamless access to professional development resources and exclusive member discounts.
Professional Training Programs with Completion Certificates:
- Inventory Management Excellence
- Strategic Purchasing
- Conflict Navigation Essentials
- Hygiene Refresher
- Optimising Stock Operations
- Maximising Team Impact
- Project Prowess
- Leading Teams
- Leading Teams with Impact
Exclusive Member Discounts:
- Uniform savings through Chef Works
- Discounted kitchen management solutions via Foodtrail app
Looking ahead to 2026, we’re excited to be researching and developing a comprehensive Chef’s Mentoring and Coaching Program—stay tuned for more details!
Sharing Stories, Building Community
Member Blog Series
Throughout 2025, we’ve featured monthly blogs written by our talented members, sharing their career achievements, workplace experiences, and the moments that inspired them to join this incredible industry. These stories remind us why we do what we do.
We’re continuing to invite members to share their wisdom: What life lessons has the industry taught you? What knowledge would you pass on to the next generation of young chefs? Your voice matters, and we’d love to hear from you.
Business Support and Wellbeing
Through our partnership with Business Victoria, we’ve connected members with valuable resources, including business coaching support from Tina Manolitsas. Additionally, Tina has generously offered breathing and mindfulness programs for our members—because taking care of ourselves is just as important as taking care of our kitchens.
Cooking with Heart: Our Charitable Impact
Cooking for Charity
Inspired by the legacy of Jeffrey Tan, who raised over $5 million through Cooking for Charity, we’ve embraced the philosophy that giving back is fundamental to who we are as culinary professionals. In 2025, Technical Chef Australia was involved in two charity dinners, raising vital funds and leaving a legacy of giving and advancement.
We believe in the power of food to bring people together and create positive change. These events embody the heart of our profession—generosity, community, and the simple joy of a shared meal.
Building for Tomorrow
Growing Our Network
Since the pandemic, we’ve faced the challenge of rebuilding and expanding our sponsor base in a difficult economic climate. Despite these headwinds, we’ve made meaningful progress in building a network of supporters who believe in our mission. We’re grateful to every partner and sponsor who has stood with us, helping to ensure Technical Chef Australia can continue supporting chefs across the nation.
Looking Ahead
As we close the chapter on 2025, we’re energised by what lies ahead. Every achievement this year has been made possible by our passionate members, dedicated volunteers, and supportive partners. Together, we’re not just building an organisation—we’re nurturing a community that values excellence, compassion, and the transformative power of great food.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to continuing to elevate our profession, support one another, and make a difference—one dish, one chef, one act of kindness at a time.
With gratitude and excitement for what’s to come,
The Technical Chef Australia Team