Melbourne Food and Wine (MFW) and Hostplus have launched a nationwide industry scholarship program to boost the career of an up-and-coming star in Australia’s food, wine and hospitality industry.

The inaugural Hostplus Hospitality Scholarship is open to individuals aged 18-30-years-old across Australia, who work in the food, wine and hospitality industry. The scholarship offers work experience in three renowned restaurants or wineries across the world and the exclusive opportunity to learn from international leaders and visionaries.

The scholarship program also includes return international flights, $2000 spending money, a year-long mentorship with a Melbourne Food and Wine Legend and the opportunity to share their experience with a video blog.

Applicants can enter the scholarship by uploading a short video application online at www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au/industry/scholarship. Submissions open April 23, with the winner to be announced in June.

MFW chief executive officer and judge Natalie O’Brien said she’s proud to be working with Hostplus to connect the next generation of the Australian hospitality industry with global leaders and local legends, including cook and food writer Stephanie Alexander, wine writer James Halliday and restaurateur Andrew McConnell.

“The ability to travel and gain experience in leading restaurants or wineries across the world is a tremendous opportunity for a young hospitality professional and will provide an invaluable launching pad for their career,” she said.