Reality TV in Australia is hugely popular, and for good reason!
Australian reality shows have a reputation for being addictive, dramatic and sometimes, surprisingly wholesome.
If you’re a fan of chaotic dating shows, love to watch high-pressure cooking or are interested in the lives of Aussie lifeguards, there’s an Australian reality show for you. If you’re new to Australian TV (or just looking for your next binge), here’s a guide to some of the country’s most iconic reality shows.
Married at First Sight
If there’s one show that dominates Aussie reality TV every year, it’s Married at First Sight (or MAFS). Strangers agree to marry each other the moment they meet, then attempt to build a relationship while cameras (and three ‘experts’) watch their every move. The show quickly became famous for its dramatic fights and big personalities, and is a must-watch every season.
Most iconic moment:
Martha vs Cyrell in a red-wine-throwing showdown at one of the show’s many outrageous dinner parties.
Where are they now?
Surprisingly, there are a few successful couples who met on the show, from Martha and Michael to Bryce and Melissa, to Jules and Cam (all of whom also have children).
Australian Survivor
A spin-off of the 50-season American version, Australian Survivor takes contestants to a deserted island (or the Australian Outback), where they compete in tough physical challenges and strategise to avoid being voted out by their fellow players. The Australian version is known for its long seasons, intense challenges and big personalities.
Most iconic moment
King George creating one of the best blindsides Survivor has ever seen (sorry, Fraser!)
Where are they now?
Survivor contestants range from actors to influencers to personal trainers, and one iconic player just took over hosting duties from the beloved Jonathan LaPaglia this season.
Masterchef
MasterChef Australia turned cooking into prime-time television all the way back in 2008. Unlike many reality shows, it doesn’t focus on the fights, and instead is known for having a supportive atmosphere amongst the contestants and judges. Over the years, it has launched the careers of many well-known Aussie chefs and food personalities.
Most iconic moments:
Judge Matt Preston smashed a contestant’s plate, only to tell him his food was ‘disgustingly good’.
Where are they now?
Contestants like Julie Goodwin, Khanh Ong and Poh Ling Yeow have gone on to host cooking shows, open their own restaurants and publish cookbooks.
Below Deck Down Under
A spin-off of the Below Deck franchise, Below Deck Down Under was initially set off the coast of Queensland. The show follows crew members working long hours to deliver five-star service to ultra-rich (and ultra-demanding) guests.
Most iconic moments:
Anytime Captain Jason is on screen. He can do it all!
Where are they now?
Fan favourite Aesha Scott has worked her way up from stewardess to chief stew, with a smile on her face the whole time. She has since appeared on The Amazing Race Australia, and I’m A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!
The Bachelor & The Bachelorette
These dating shows follow a single bachelor or bachelorette as they date multiple contestants, gradually eliminating people until they hopefully find love.
Most iconic moments:
In one of the most action-packed finales, Nick Cummins (known as the ‘Honey Badger’) ended his season by choosing no one, leaving both finalists shook.
Where are they now?
Five couples from The Bachelor Australia are now married - including first-season winners, Tim and Anna. The Bachelorette hasn’t had quite the same success rate - none of the winning couples are still together.
Bondi Rescue
Bondi Rescue follows the real lifeguards who patrol Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach. The show focuses on the challenges of keeping swimmers safe, from octopus stings to surfing injuries, as well as the rewarding side of such a demanding job.
Most iconic moments:
From the biggest mass rescue in Bondi Beach history to an invasion of bluebottle jellyfish, there’s never a dull moment on Bondi Rescue. There have also been quite a few celebrity appearances on the show.
Big personalities:
Hoppo, Deano, Harries, Singlets, Maxi - the lifeguards (and their classic Aussie nicknames) keep the show going.
