Ask any Australian and they’ll agree: Avocado Toast is our greatest culinary creation. Yet while some nations have official designations to celebrate their national dishes, Pad Thai in Thailand, Ceviche in Peru, Australia’s pioneering breakfast creation, continues to sit unrecognised.   

Well, not anymore. Australian Avocados has joined forces with cricket legend Merv Hughes to launch a nationwide petition calling on the country to formally declare Avo Toast as Australia’s official breakfast. 

Known for his uncompromising Aussie spirit and knack for rallying a crowd, the beloved cult hero of Australian cricket is channeling his trademark passion into a new cause, uniting the country in a mission to give our favourite morning meal the formal recognition it deserves.

Popularised in the early 90s by culinary icon Bill Granger, Avo Toast has helped spark a worldwide brunch and cafe movement, synonymous with Australian culture. Historic records show avocado on toast or bread in Australia, dating back as early as 1929.  

The online petition, seeks to collect as many Aussie signatures as possible, and spark an important conversation about national dish recognition, and celebrating avo toast’s role in cementing Australia as the home of breakfast. Beyond crowning a culinary classic, official national status also serves as a nationwide nod to the hardworking local growers behind every smashed avo, who continue to supply world-class produce to kitchen tables and cafes across the country. 

With thousands of signatures anticipated, the ambition is to capture the attention of Australian Parliament and receive a national endorsement. 
Kicking off the campaign trail today, Merv hit the streets of Fitzroy to dole out fresh Australian avocados, shake hands, and gather petition signatures from local brekky lovers. In a rare public appearance, the fast-bowling legend campaigned in front of a giant, “Mervral” mural of himself. Naturally. 

Merv Hughes, Australian Cricket Legend and Campaign Ambassador, said: "The Scots have haggis, the Vietnamese have pho, but us Australians are too humble and too polite to brag about our greatest culinary achievement. 

Avo Toast isn't just a meal, it’s an Aussie institution, and it's time we get on the front foot to give it the official title it’s earned. Smashed or sliced, no breakfast is complete without the creamy goodness of avocado, on top of a good, warm, crusty sourdough. 

"Beyond the brekky table, backing this petition is a direct way to support the local Aussie growers who work year-round to supply the delicious avocados that end up on our plates. I’m calling on every Aussie to sign up, get behind the cause, and let's get our favourite brekky over the line."

Lucy Philip, Australian Avocado grower, said: "Aussie growers put so much passion and hard work into producing fresh, high-quality avocados year-round. Seeing our fruit turned into Australia's favourite morning meal is something we're incredibly proud of. Giving Avo Toast official national status is a fantastic way to celebrate our local farming communities, and we’re thrilled to have Merv on-ground, driving support for Aussie growers." 

Sign the petition today to rally behind Merv Hughes and Australian Avocados, and let’s give the nation's favourite breakfast and Aussie growers the official recognition they deserve.