Married At First Sight (MAFS) is facing increased scrutiny after SafeWork NSW confirmed it is continuing to monitor the Channel Nine reality show. The admission came in the NSW Parliament following questions from controversial MP Mark Latham regarding the death of participant Lachlan Rofe.
Latham's Questions and Response
Latham, a friend of Rofe, tabled questions to the Minister for Work Health and Safety, Sophie Cotsis, asking about investigations into the show following Rofe's suicide. Rofe, aged 45, appeared on the original MAFS season and later Farmer Wants A Wife in 2016, dying suddenly in September last year.
In her response tabled on Tuesday, Cotsis revealed SafeWork NSW is continuing to investigate psychosocial concerns at MAFS due to a Request for Service made in early 2026. She also confirmed the watchdog had previously responded to four complaints about psychosocial issues during filming, issuing three improvement notices regarding reporting of incidents, hazard management, and health and safety training.
Participant Concerns
Gia Fleur, dubbed the 'villain' of the 2026 season, told the Saturday Telegraph she never felt genuinely supported despite available services. She claimed psychologists employed by Endemol and the network may have their own agenda, adding that participants fear their words will be relayed to producers.
A Nine Entertainment spokesman said the network and Endemol Shine take participant wellbeing seriously, providing access to a show psychologist and welfare resources during and after filming.
Previous Incidents
SafeWork NSW launched an investigation in March last year after groom Paul Antoine punched a hole in a door during an argument with bride Carina Mirabile. The Nine Network cooperated with NSW Police. At the time, Nine stated they provided support to the couple and that Carina wanted to remain in the experiment.
