AUSTRALIAN SPECIALTY COFFEE ASSOCIATION

The Australian Specialty Coffee Association (ASCA) is a volunteer lead, not for profit organisation that has a mission to develop and empower coffee professionals across Australia. 

ASCA provides a platform which enables coffee professionals to bounce ideas off one another, share opinions, celebrate success and to work together collectively on challenges impacting the industry.

ASCA proudly operates as the only feed into the World Coffee Events championships in the country. Working in line with international quality standards, and collaborating with international specialty coffee associations allows ASCA to bring Australian competitors to the world stage. 

JOIN

A coffee community like no other – ASCA offers more benefits to members than ever before. With events and competitions now run Australia wide, as well a focus on education and community.

COMPETE

With new competition formats, and a lower barrier to entry competitors can enter both The Community Coffee Competition and The National Barista Competition in a variety of disciplines.

JUDGE

Judging provides a platform for coffee professionals to gain experience and develop their skill set.

SPONSOR

With accessible sponsorship tiers offering nationwide exposure, ASCA provides a unique value proposition within in the coffee community.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteering with ASCA is an incredible way to network and gain experience within the coffee community. With a variety of roles available, we welcome volunteers with all levels of experience.

CONNECT

ASCA is always looking to bring more value, community and connection to it’s members. Watch this space during 2024 for some exciting new annoucements.

Community coffee champs – UPCOMING EVENTS

TASMANIA COMMUNITY COFFEE ACTIVATION

When: 22nd of February 2025, from 2:00pm.
Where: Pilgrim Coffee, 54 Liverpool St, Hobart TAS 7000
What: The Alternative Dairy Co. Latte Art Smackdown, Oatly Espresso Challenge and ASCA Brew-Off. Complimentary Monin cocktails served throughout.
Who: Event open to public, all welcome to attend. Competitors require registration.

More Information

The Alternative Dairy Co. Latte Art Smackdown
Standard smackdown rules. Dice picks pattern, crowd picks the winner.

ASCA Brew-Off
Any coffee, any method, 3 judges pick the winner.
10 minute time limit
Minimum serving size 250ml

Oatly Espresso Challenge
2x Espresso
2x Oat Cappuccino
Drinks judged on matching three flavour descriptors given, using any coffee. Can bring grinder and cups as per competitor preferences. Milk must be from a provided oatly carton.

2025 NSW COMMUNITY COFFEE CHAMPIONSHIPS

When: 31st of March – 3rd of April 2025
Where: Ona Coffee, 58/60 Smith St, Marrickville NSW 2204
Who: Event open to public, all welcome to attend. Competitors require registration.

NSW AND ACT JUDGES WORKSHOP (BARISTA AND BREWERS)

When: March 15th – 16th, 2025
Where: Zest Coffee Sydney, 42 Buckley St, Marrickville NSW 2204
Who: Anyone interested in judging for the CCC this year or in the future (Interstate and new prospective judges welcome)

More Information

Are you curious about coffee judging but not sure where to start? This two-day workshop is designed for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the judging process—whether you’re a new judge, an experienced judge wanting a refresher, or someone considering competing or coaching in the future.

Through hands-on learning, we’ll explore the essential skills and knowledge needed to evaluate performances with confidence.

What’s Included:

Day One – Foundations of Coffee Judging (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

  • Introduction to WCC, ASCA & CCC
  • Judging Competencies – Learn the responsibilities, ethics, and competition formats for coffee judges.
  • Judging Process Overview – Understand the preparation, on-site expectations, and debriefing process for competitions.
  • Sensory Exercise & Training: Tasting Coffee – Evaluate key coffee attributes such as aroma, acidity, sweetness, and balance.
  • Q&A

Day Two – Specialised Judging Practice (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

  • Scoresheet Breakdown – Understand scoring criteria and common mistakes to avoid during judging.
  • Providing Constructive Feedback – Learn to write clear, objective feedback while balancing technical evaluation and encouragement.
  • Practical Evaluation Experience (2-3 Rounds) – Participate in guided tasting, live competition routines, and group deliberation.
  • Q&A and Final Takeaways – discussion with experienced judges

The agenda may be modified based on site circumstances.

More details and the full schedule will be emailed to registered participants three days before the workshop.

What to Prepare:

  • Light Meals – Feel free to bring your own lunch, as we will have a lunch break in between.
  • Notebook & Pen – For taking notes on sensory experiences, feedback techniques, and scoring.
  • Refillable Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is important, especially during multiple coffee tastings.
  • Comfortable Clothing – The workshop involves standing and moving around, so wear something suitable.
  • Cupping Spoon – If you have one, bring your preferred spoon for tasting.
  • Scoresheets – Download the Brewers and Barista scoresheets in advance to review the format.

Australian coffee championships – UPCOMING EVENTS

2025 AUSTRALIAN COFFEE CHAMPIONSHIPS

What: 2025 The Alternative Dairy Co. Australian Latte Art Championship (Top 6 Finalists Only)
2025 Sttoke Australian Cup Tasters Championship (Top 6 Finalists Only)
2025 Monin Australian Coffee In Good Spirits Championships (Registration Open)

When: 1-2nd of March 2025, 9:00am – 6:00pm
Where: Aunty Pegs, 200 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC 3066
Who: Event open to public, all welcome to attend. Coffee in Good Spirits registration open to all, Latte Art and Cup Tasters top 6 finalists only.

SPONSORS 2025