HEALTHY LIVING FOR CHEFS
The hospitality industry is fast-paced, rewarding, and creative—but it also comes with long hours, high-pressure environments, and physical demands.
At the Australian Culinary Federation, we are committed to supporting the wellbeing of chefs and hospitality professionals, ensuring that mental health, physical health, and overall wellness remain a priority.
Mental Health
Support
Your mental health matters. If you or someone you know is struggling, there are resources available to help:
R U OK?– Encouraging meaningful conversations about mental health.
The Burnt Chef Project – A global initiative tackling mental health stigma in hospitality.
Lifeline Australia– 24/7 crisis support (Call 13 11 14).
We also offer mental health first aid training and access to industry-specific wellbeing workshops.
Healthy Living for Chefs
Maintaining a balanced lifestyle in hospitality is challenging, but small changes can make a difference. Practical strategies support energy levels, and prioritising self-care improves overall wellbeing.
Nutrition Tips: Eating well on a busy schedule by planning meals and choosing nutrient-dense foods.
Physical Wellbeing: Managing fatigue, reducing stress, and incorporating movement into daily routines.
Sleep & Recovery: Understanding the importance of rest, creating a sleep-friendly routine, and practising relaxation techniques.
By making conscious choices about health and wellbeing, chefs can maintain longevity and fulfilment in their careers.
workshop &
Training
We regularly host wellbeing-focused workshops to support chefs and hospitality professionals, including:
Mindfulness in the Kitchen – Practical techniques for reducing stress at work.
Mental Health
First Aid– Recognising and responding to signs of mental health struggles.
Work-Life Balance Strategies–
Navigating a long-term career in hospitality without burnout.
Community &
Connection
Chef Support Networks – A safe space to connect with others who understand the challenges of the industry.
Personal Stories – Read insights from chefs who’ve navigated mental health challenges.
Member Resources – Articles, videos, and interviews focused on wellbeing, available in the member portal.
IMMEDIATE SUPPORT
beyondblue Support Service
Support. Advice. Action Information and referral to relevant services for depression and anxiety related matters. Phone: 1300 22 46 36 Read More>>
Blue Knot Foundation Helpline
The Blue Knot Helpline provides information and short term counselling nationally via telephone for adults survivors of childhood trauma on 1300 657 380 and email helpline@blueknot.org.au 7 days a week 9am to 5pm AEST. Read More>>
Lifeline
24 hour telephone counselling service. Phone: 13 11 14 Read More>>
Kids Help Line
Confidential and anonymous, telephone and online counselling service specifically for young people aged between 5 and 25.
Phone: 1800 55 18 00 Read More>>
Suicide Call Back Service
24/7 free counselling and support for people at risk of suicide, carers and bereaved
Phone:1300 659 467 Read More>>
Mensline Australia
A dedicated service for men with relationship and family concerns. Phone: 1300 78 99 78
Read More>>
1800RESPECT
National sexual assault, domestic family violence counselling services 24-hour online support for workers and professionals.
Phone: 1800 737 732 Read More>>
Gambling Helpline
Starting to think gambling might be a problem? Find out about the signs of a problem and assess gambling issues and spending.
Phone: 1800 858 858 Read More>>