We believe a television show has a responsibility to its participants and its viewing audience. It's crucial that the producers of Married at First Sight (MAFS) conduct rigorous background checks on all participants before they commence the "experiment" portion of the television show in order to prevent instances of domestic violence and coercive control. Implementing this measure will maintain the safety and wellbeing of all individuals involved.

Furthermore, warning signs of such unacceptable behavior during the course of the experiment should be taken seriously. We ask that any participant showing signs of domestic violence or coercive control is immediately removed and given proper counseling. This would demonstrate the producers' duty of care towards all participants.

Domestic violence is a significant issue in Australia, with various studies and reports highlighting its prevalence and impact. Here are some key statistics and findings:

### Prevalence:
1. **Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Data (2021-2022)**:
   - **1 in 6 women** (16% or 1.6 million) and **1 in 16 men** (6.1% or 548,000) have experienced physical or sexual violence by a cohabiting partner since the age of 15.
   - **1 in 4 women** (23% or 2.3 million) and **1 in 14 men** (7.3% or 656,000) have experienced emotional abuse by a current or former partner.

2. **National Homicide Monitoring Program**:
   - On average, **one woman a week** is killed by a current or former partner in Australia.

3. **Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)**:
   - In 2020-2021, **72,000 women, 34,000 children, and 9,000 men** sought homelessness services due to domestic violence.

### Impact on Children:
- Around **1 in 6 children** (17% or 1.1 million) have witnessed physical or sexual violence against a parent or guardian.

 Knowing these alarming statistics, it is pivotal for MAFS to be proactive in screening their participants and managing potential risks. Having these actions in place can serve as a significant piece to educating viewers on the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of healthy relationships.

Join us in this mission to hold the production team accountable and demand a safer environment for participants on MAFS. Please sign this petition.