Network 10 has slammed rumours claiming Big Brother Australia host Mel Tracina made a series of behind-the-scenes production demands ahead of a possible 2026 season.

Network 10’s reboot of Big Brother Australia has been quite the whirlwind with its snap evictions, romances and wacky shopping tasks.

However, amidst the reality TV mischief we all know and love, anonymous sources who claim to be close to production have claimed that Queensland’s weather has wreaked havoc on set — especially on the live stage, where Mel Tracina wrangles the vibes and chaos of Big Brother Australia.
The fit? Chef’s kiss. (Image source: Instagram / @mel_tracina)
“Mel has weathered Queensland’s wildest storms this season, literally,” an insider dished to New Idea.

“She’s been drenched, blown sideways, and pushed to keep the energy high even when the conditions were bordering on unsafe.

“She’s incredibly professional but everyone can see she’s exhausted.”

Insider claims Mel Tracina reportedly demands production changes ahead of Big Brother Australia 2026

According to the insider, the beloved host and vibe wrangler reportedly made a series of demands before she commits to another season of the reboot. This includes a roof over the live stage — out of safety for herself and the audience — and couches for exit interviews with evicted housemates.

“She wants protection not just for herself but for the fans who show up every week,” the insider continued.

“People were standing out there, soaked, cold and clinging to umbrellas. Mel cares about them as much as her own safety.”
The double denim is everything. (Image source: Instagram / @mel_tracina)
Another insider, one who claims to be a crew member on Big Brother, said Mel mentioned previous Big Brother hosts, such as Gretel Killeen and Sonia Kruger, wouldn’t work under these conditions.

“She’s said more than once, ‘This would never have flown with Gretel or Sonia!’” the insider claimed.

“And she’s right. The weather this year has been chaotic.”

Despite the hectic weather, the insider added that Mel “loves the show”.

“She’s having a ball. But she’s hit breaking point. She just wants to do her job safely. And honestly, she deserves that,” the insider claimed.

Network 10 slams Mel Tracina Big Brother Australia demands rumours

In a statement to PEDESTRIAN.TV, a spokesperson for Network 10 slammed the rumours, labelling them as a “complete fabrication”.

“Mel Tracina has made an exceptional debut as the new host of Big Brother. Rumours about production ‘demands’ are a complete fabrication,” the spokesperson told P.TV.

As we ride this wild wave of Big Brother Australia, I must admit I am in absolute awe of Mel’s hosting, especially when the weather gets wacky.

She truly is the diva (as in diva ~slay~) of Big Brother Australia, and I can’t see anyone else host this iconic reboot.