Mel Tracina – Australian Television Presenter, Comedian and Radio Personality
Mel Tracina is an Australian television and radio presenter, comedian and media personality who has become one of the country’s most recognisable entertainment figures. Best known for her work on Network Ten’s comedy program The Cheap Seats and as the host of Big Brother Australia, Mel has built a reputation for her quick wit, infectious personality and natural ability to connect with audiences.
Combining television presenting, radio broadcasting, comedy writing and live entertainment, Mel has established herself as a versatile performer across several areas of the Australian entertainment industry. Her engaging personality and sharp observations have made her a popular figure with audiences of all ages.
Early Career and Introduction to Radio
Mel Tracina began developing her broadcasting career while studying at La Trobe University in Melbourne, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 2011. During this time, she became involved with the Student Youth Network, gaining valuable experience in community radio and developing her skills as a presenter.
Her first professional radio presenting position came in 2014 when she joined Zoo FM in Dubbo, New South Wales, as a breakfast announcer. The opportunity provided an important stepping stone in her broadcasting career and helped establish her confidence behind the microphone.
In 2015, Mel joined Melbourne’s 89.9 The Light as a casual music announcer before progressing to weekday morning broadcasting. She returned to the Nova network in 2018, where she continued developing her profile as a lively and entertaining radio personality.
Television Success with The Cheap Seats
Mel’s television breakthrough came in 2021 when she joined Network Ten’s comedy panel program The Cheap Seats as its Cultural Correspondent.
Hosted by Tim McDonald and Melanie Bracewell, the popular program takes a humorous look at the week’s biggest news stories, entertainment headlines and unusual events. Mel quickly became a favourite with viewers through her satirical observations, celebrity interviews and entertaining commentary on popular culture.
Her contributions have included interviews with some of the world’s biggest entertainment names, helping establish her as a confident and engaging television personality.
She has also appeared as a guest panellist on the popular quiz show Have You Been Paying Attention?, where her quick-thinking humour and ability to think on her feet have made her a welcome addition to the panel.
Big Brother Australia Host
In 2024, Network Ten announced Mel Tracina as the new host of Big Brother Australia, marking a major milestone in her television career.
The iconic reality television series returned to its original network in 2025, with filming taking place at Dreamworld on Queensland’s Gold Coast. Mel stepped into the hosting role, bringing a fresh personality to the long-running format while helping reconnect the program with its original audience.
A longtime fan of the show, Mel embraced the opportunity to front one of Australia’s most recognisable reality television franchises. Her warmth, humour and enthusiasm helped introduce a new era of Big Brother, which featured live nominations, evictions and greater audience interaction.
In 2026, Mel returned to host her second consecutive season. With the program moving to a new home at Screen Queensland Studios in Brisbane, she continues to lead the series as it evolves for a new generation of viewers.
National Radio Career
Alongside her television commitments, Mel has maintained a successful career in radio with the Nova network.
Her experience across regional and metropolitan broadcasting has helped shape her distinctive presenting style, combining entertainment news, music, humour and everyday conversation.
Mel currently hosts Nova’s national daytime radio program, broadcasting weekdays from 9am to 2pm across the network’s major metropolitan markets. Her ability to connect with listeners and bring personality to the airwaves has made her an established voice in Australian commercial radio.
Comedy, Live Events and Other Projects
Away from television and radio, Mel Tracina has developed her talents as a comedy writer and live performer. She has written and performed in several shows for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, demonstrating her abilities beyond traditional broadcasting.
She also co-hosted the podcast Social JustUs, which explored international social justice issues and reflected her interest in important social and cultural conversations.
As an experienced master of ceremonies and live event host, Mel has worked with major organisations including Live Nation, Fed Square and Nova Red Rooms. Her interviewing experience has also seen her meet some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, including Margot Robbie, Chris Hemsworth and Pedro Pascal.
In addition to her entertainment work, Mel has used her public profile to support charitable causes. She is an ambassador for the Lighthouse Foundation, helping raise awareness of youth homelessness and supporting young people who have experienced homelessness or disadvantage.
A Rising Star of Australian Entertainment
Mel Tracina’s career demonstrates the versatility and determination required to succeed in Australia’s competitive entertainment industry. From her early days in community and regional radio to national broadcasting, comedy and prime-time television, she has continued to expand her professional achievements.
With her distinctive humour, natural presenting ability and approachable personality, Mel has become a familiar face and voice to Australian audiences. As the host of Big Brother Australia and a regular presence across television and radio, she continues to establish herself as one of the country’s exciting contemporary entertainment personalities.
