FORMER town planner Emma Dean has a bright new future ahead of her in the food industry.

The 32-year-old was crowned the fifth-ever winner of MasterChef Australia last night.

Dean battled through three high-pressure rounds of cooking against fellow finalists Lynton Tapp and Samira El Khafir. With a score of 85 over three rounds, Dean was awarded the title, just four points ahead of Tapp on 81 points.

She takes home a $100,000 cash prize, an Alfa Romeo Giulietta, a New Holland publishing book deal and the opportunity to work in the kitchens of some of Australia's best chefs.

"I just can't believe it; it really hasn't sunk in yet," Dean said.

"The whole experience feels like a dream, what a rollercoaster! I'm really privileged to have been able to share this with Lynton, who's become a wonderful friend. I can't wait to head out into the food world and make this restaurant a reality."

Tapp and El Khafir a both received American Express cash grants of $20,000 and $10,000 respectively, to help with their food plans.

Dean has already purchased a second-hand commercial kitchen and is now looking for a space she can open her restaurant with her boyfriend, Dan.

Yesterday, Ten program chief Beverly McGarvey also told News Limited that all spin-offs of the show have been axed, including Professionals, Junior and Celebrity MasterChefs, with the show and its hosts taking a break until the sixth series airs later next year.