Foxtel Group today announced a new season of THE GREAT AUSTRALIAN BAKE OFF, with a fresh face joining the cast. Comedian and writer Tom Walker steps into the iconic shed as co-host alongside returning favourite Natalie Tran, joining esteemed judges Rachel Khoo and Darren Purchese for a season full of flavour, flair and fun.
Known for his clever, offbeat humour, Tom Walker brings a unique energy to the Bake Off shed. A talkative mime and Twitch streamer with a background in improv, Tom has made standout appearances on Whose Line Is It Anyway? and Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont-Spelling Bee. His quick-fire wit and infectious charm make him the perfect guide for this season’s joyful, chaotic baking adventure. With accolades including Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s Best Newcomer and Sydney Comedy Festival’s Director’s Choice Award, Tom is firmly established as one of Australia’s most original comedic voices.
“I truly loved being a part of The Great Australian Bake Off. The whole crew is so warm, funny, welcoming and kind, and the bakers are so talented it blows my mind. To the little boy who grew up thinking he'd never see a biscuit city - you were wrong. I'm thrilled to be part of the Bake Off Family,” said Tom Walker.
Season 8 will see 12 amateur bakers from around Australia compete across 10 flavour-packed episodes and 30 delicious challenges. From Tropical Tarts and Imprime Rolls to Biscuit Dioramas and Edible Terrariums, this season pushes creativity to new heights, all under the supportive eyes of judges Rachel and Darren.
Returning to host is Natalie Tran, the much-loved comedian and actor whose authenticity and playfulness made last season an instant hit. Her natural rapport with Tom and the bakers brings an extra layer of fun to this year’s competition.
Joining her back in the shed is judge, Rachel Khoo, a Le Cordon Bleu-trained pastry chef and international food creative. With bestselling cookbooks and acclaimed TV shows across the globe, she returns with a keen eye for technique, presentation, and innovative flair.
Alongside Rachel is Darren Purchese, one of Australia’s most celebrated pastry chefs. Renowned for his intricate desserts and showstopping centrepieces, Darren brings decades of expertise and a generous mentoring spirit to every challenge.
In sweet news for fans, the Foxtel Group has officially commissioned Season 9 of THE GREAT AUSTRALIAN BAKE OFF, with production set to begin soon. Casting is now underway across Australia - budding bakers can apply at greataustralianbakeoff.com.
“The GREAT AUSTRALIAN BAKE OFF continues to be one of our most-loved titles - full of mouth-watering inspiration, humour and jaw-dropping creativity. Commissioning a new season was an easy decision as filming this show is such a joy for everyone involved, and we can’t wait to bring more spectacular bakes to audiences around the country,” said Howard Myers-Rifai, Head of Unscripted Originals, Foxtel Group.
THE GREAT AUSTRALIAN BAKE OFF is proudly produced by BBC Studios Productions Australia, bringing expert storytelling and production excellence to one of the country’s most beloved series.
“The GREAT AUSTRALIAN BAKE OFF is a feel-good favourite that brings warmth, creativity, and joy to audiences. We're thrilled to see it return for another season, and excited to welcome Tom Walker to the Bake Off family. His sharp wit and infectious energy are the perfect ingredients to complement the magic of the show. With a stellar cast and spectacular bakes ahead, this season promises to be a real treat!” said Kylie Washington, EVP and Creative Director, Global Entertainment, BBC Studios Australia and New Zealand.
The Bake Off franchise began in 2010 with The Great British Bake Off, where it became a ratings phenomenon. The Love Productions format is distributed by BBC Studios and has been produced locally in the US, Denmark, Sweden, Belgium, Poland, Ireland, Kenya, Norway, Finland, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Turkey, Ukraine, Algeria and France.