Allegations that Married at First Sight Australia stars were not informed about their on-screen partners' past drug and violence convictions are "serious and disturbing," according to the country's media watchdog.

The claims, brought to light by a BBC News investigation, have also drawn a strong reaction from the UK's media regulator, Ofcom, which described the reports as "deeply concerning."

Several male contestants reportedly joined the popular reality show, known globally as MAFS Australia, despite facing allegations or having previous convictions for violence, assault, or drug-related offenses. The Australian broadcaster Channel 9 and production company Endemol Shine Australia have stated they have robust protocols in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.

The show enjoys significant popularity in both Australia and the UK, where it airs on Channel 4. In response to the allegations, Channel 4 has removed all UK episodes of MAFS Australia from its streaming service, All 4, although the show remains accessible elsewhere. This development follows a crisis for the British version of the show, where the BBC's Panorama program reported rape allegations from two former contestants, which the accused men have denied.

Channel 4 has initiated an independent review into contributor welfare for MAFS UK, with findings expected later this summer. It is important to note that MAFS UK is produced by a different company than the Australian version.

Nine former MAFS Australia participants shared their experiences with the BBC, expressing a desire for the show to enhance its background vetting processes and cease casting individuals with prior convictions. In response to the BBC's investigation, a spokesperson for the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) acknowledged the "serious and disturbing matters" raised by former participants.

The ACMA spokesperson indicated that the regulator's authority is confined to examining whether broadcast content adheres to relevant industry codes of practice. It is understood that these codes do not currently include provisions regarding the treatment of program participants. The spokesperson added that the ACMA is "committed to ensuring that broadcasters meet their obligations to audiences."

While ACMA's jurisdiction over participant welfare in this instance is limited, the concerns raised highlight ongoing scrutiny of reality television production standards and the duty of care owed to participants in high-pressure, public-facing environments.