MasterChef Australia 2026: release date, judges, and how to watch
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MasterChef Australia Season 18 premieres at 7:00 PM AEST on Sunday, April 19, 2026, returning with a new group of home cooks competing for the title. The show will air on Network 10 and stream for free on 10 Play.
This season features 24 amateur contestants selected through a competitive audition process, continuing the show’s focus on discovering and developing new culinary talent.
Following the success of the 2025 season, in which Laura Sharrad claimed the title, the 2026 edition returns to the classic home-cook format, which has been a key part of the show’s appeal.
How to watch MasterChef Australia 2026 for free
The new season will be available to stream for free on 10 Play in Australia. However, the platform is geo-restricted, which means you won’t be able to access it from outside the country without a workaround. Here’s how to watch MasterChef Australia with a VPN:
- Get a VPN with servers in Australia – I recommend NordVPN for consistent speeds
- Download and install the app
- Connect to an Australian server
- Go to 10play.com.au and search for MasterChef Australia 2026
- Press play and start watching
What is MasterChef Australia?
MasterChef Australia is one of the most successful adaptations of the original UK format. Since its debut in 2009, it has built a global fanbase thanks to its mix of competition, storytelling, and high-level cooking.
The show follows amateur home cooks as they take on a variety of challenges, including mystery boxes, invention tests, and pressure tests. Contestants are judged by a panel of culinary experts, and one winner takes home the grand prize and the MasterChef title.
Over the years, the series has launched the careers of many professional chefs and remains a staple of Australian television.
What to expect from MasterChef Australia 2026
The judging panel returns, featuring Poh Ling Yeow, Sofia Levin, and Jean-Christophe Novelli. Andy Allen is also part of the panel but is expected to be absent from some episodes due to paternity leave.
Season 18 leans heavily into guest appearances. Confirmed names include Jimmy Barnes and Robert Irwin, alongside well-known chefs such as Maggie Beer, Curtis Stone, Adriano Zumbo, and Rick Stein.
There will also be appearances from former contestants like Justine Schofield, as well as food creators and social media personalities joining selected challenges.
One of the biggest surprises this season is a guest appearance from Meghan Markle, who filmed a segment as a guest judge during her visit to Australia.
The format remains familiar, with a mix of individual and team challenges, guest-led cook-offs, and elimination rounds. The winner will take home $250,000 AUD and opportunities to build a career in the food industry.
Where will MasterChef Australia 2026 be available?
- Australia: Streaming for free on 10 Play
- United States: Older seasons are typically available on platforms like Tubi
- United Kingdom: Earlier seasons can be found on Amazon Prime Video, but new seasons usually arrive later
FAQ
Can I watch MasterChef Australia 2026 in the US?
The easiest way to watch it right away is by using a VPN to access 10 Play, where new episodes are released first. If you’d rather wait, older seasons are often available on platforms like Tubi, but the newest season usually takes time to arrive.
Can I watch MasterChef Australia 2026 in the UK?
The easiest way to watch it right away is by using a VPN to access 10 Play, where new episodes are released for free. If you’d rather wait, earlier seasons are sometimes available on platforms like Amazon Prime Video in the UK, but new seasons typically arrive later.
When will MasterChef Australia 2026 be released?
Season 18 premieres on April 19, 2026 at 7:00 PM AEST, with episodes airing multiple times per week.
Is MasterChef Australia 2026 free to watch?
Yes, the show is free to stream on 10 Play. You only need to create a free account with an email address and an Australian postcode. If you’re outside Australia, a VPN is required to access the platform.
