Allegations that contestants on 'Married at First Sight' Australia were not informed about their on-screen partners' previous drug and violence convictions have been described as "serious and disturbing" by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

A BBC News investigation revealed that several male contestants were allowed on the show despite having been convicted of or facing allegations of violence, assault, or drug use. ACMA acknowledged the claims but noted its jurisdiction is limited to investigating whether broadcast content complies with industry codes of practice, which do not cover participant treatment.

UK regulator Ofcom also called the allegations "deeply concerning" and said it expects Channel 4 to take them into account in its ongoing reviews. Channel 4, which airs the Australian version in the UK, stated it has no editorial control over the show's production but ensures adherence to the Ofcom Broadcasting Code.

In a joint statement, Channel 9 and Endemol Shine Australia emphasized they take participant safety "extremely seriously" and have a multi-stage vetting process including police checks, psychological assessments, and legal due diligence.

Nine MAFS Australia stars told the BBC they want improved background checks and a ban on contestants with criminal convictions. The UK version of MAFS has also faced crisis following rape allegations reported by BBC Panorama.

Source: www.bbc.com