Get ready for more culinary magic as Channel 10 officially confirms the return of MasterChef Australia in 2026 for an exciting new chapter. The fan-favourite series is coming back for Season 18, continuing the popular Back To Win format that first thrilled audiences in 2020 — the year Emelia Jackson claimed the title.
Now, Emelia is back in the spotlight again, this time as a contestant on the upcoming 2024 season of Dessert Masters, set to premiere in October.
MasterChef Australia 2026 – Key Details
- Filming Schedule: The upcoming season is set to be filmed between October 2025 and April 2026.
- Season Format: Continuing the exciting “Back To Win” format, Season 18 will welcome back returning contestants for another shot at the title.
- Application Deadline: If you’re a former contestant ready for redemption, make sure to apply before August 3, 2025.
- Judging Panel: While the official judges for 2026 haven’t been confirmed yet, fans can expect familiar faces. The Season 17 panel included Andy Allen, Sofia Levin, Jean-Christophe Novelli, and Poh Ling Yeow — several of whom are likely to return.
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How to Apply MasterChef Australia 2026 Series 18?
Ready to step back into the kitchen and take your shot at the MasterChef title? Here’s everything you need to know before applying for MasterChef Australia Season 18 – Back To Win.
- All applications must be submitted online. Mailed-in entries will not be accepted.
- Answer every question truthfully and completely.
- Due to the high number of applications, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. You’ll hear from us if we need more information, want to schedule an interview, or invite you to an audition.
What to Include in Your Application
- A recent digital photograph of yourself.
- A minimum of three (3) photos of dishes you’ve cooked recently. More are welcome! Your application won’t be complete without these.
- Optional but encouraged: Submit a 1–3 minute video introducing yourself and showing off your kitchen skills. Tell us what cooking means to you!
➤ For questions about the video, email: masterchef.casting@endemolshine.com.au
What is the Eligibility Criteria for MasterChef AU 2026?
Make sure you meet all of these requirements before applying:
- You must be 18 years or older by Monday, 13th October 2025.
- You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
- You cannot be employed by or closely related to anyone working at Endemol Shine Australia, Network 10, or their affiliated companies.
- You must not have any formal cooking qualifications (e.g. Certificate III or IV in Commercial Cookery) obtained within the past 10 years.
- All applicants must be amateur cooks. If your past professional experience gives you an unfair advantage (as judged by the producers), you will not be eligible.
- Your main income cannot come from preparing or cooking fresh food in a professional kitchen (e.g. restaurant, café, catering business). Note: Basic food handling (e.g., assembling or heating pre-made food) may be acceptable at the producer’s discretion.
Other Requirements
- You must not have been arrested, charged, or convicted of any serious criminal offense.
- Applying does not guarantee a place on the show.
- The producer may choose to interview or audition you at their discretion.
- Selection will be based on your skill, passion for food, creativity, drive, and desire to build a future in the food world.
- You must follow all health and safety protocols, including any government-mandated COVID or public health measures.
- All decisions by the producers are final and cannot be appealed.
🎬 Filming Location
- You must be fully available to film for up to 30 weeks, from October 2025 to April 2026, including a break over Christmas and New Year.
- Filming days may be long and intensive — commitment is essential.
What is the Application Deadline of MasterChef AU Series 18?
- All entries must be submitted by 11:59 PM on Sunday, 3rd August 2025.
- Late applications will not be accepted.
Who Are the Judges for MasterChef Australia: Back To Win in 2026?
The judging panel saw some fresh and beloved faces step in. Poh Ling Yeow, food critic Sofia Levin, and acclaimed chef Jean-Christophe Novelli joined long-time judge and former winner Andy Allen. The good news? All four will return in 2025, and likely continue into 2026, bringing their expertise, passion, and sharp palates back to the MasterChef kitchen.
And there’s more: celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay will once again make a special guest appearance next year, delivering his signature intensity and culinary wisdom to the aspiring chefs.
Who Are the Contestants for MasterChef Australia: Back To Win 2026?
Expect to see some of your all-time favourite contestants from earlier seasons coming back for another shot at glory. These talented cooks, who fell short of the title the first time around, are returning to the kitchen with more experience, fire, and ambition to finally win Australia’s most coveted apron.
When Does MasterChef Australia Season 18 Premiere in 2026?
MasterChef Australia Season 18 hasn’t been officially announced, following Season 17’s premiere on April 28, 2025, it’s highly likely that MasterChef au Season 18 could be released in April or early May of 2026.
