Mel Schilling has become one of the most recognisable relationship experts on Australian television – and one of its most formidable voices.
As a judge on Married At First Sight Australia, she’s known for her sharp insight, unwavering standards and refusal to let poor behaviour slide.
But beyond the commitment ceremonies and viral soundbites, Schilling’s life is defined by her family and her unwillingness to give up.
Mel Schilling’s career before MAFS
Long before MAFS catapulted her into the public eye, Mel Schilling was working on the frontline of relationship education.
A qualified behavioural specialist and dating coach, she spent years helping singles and couples understand patterns, communication styles and emotional blind spots.
Her expertise has also taken her beyond Australia, with Schilling becoming a familiar face to UK audiences through MAFS UK and Celebs Go Dating, further cementing her international reputation.
Inside Mel Schilling’s private life
Mel, 53, was born in Melbourne and is the daughter of parents Paul and Beth Schilling. She has a sister named Rebecca Atkinson.
Away from all the MAFS drama, Schilling lives a quiet life in the UK where she lives with her husband, Gareth Brisbane, and their daughter.
In recent years, Mel has spoken openly about navigating major life challenges, including serious health issues.
Mel Schilling’s cancer battle
In February 2025, Schilling announced to the world that she was finally in remission after a year-long battle with Stage 3 colon cancer. “It’s been a big year,” she told WHO at the time.
“I was filming MAFS UK throughout that time which was very tough, but I tell you what, I needed to work,” she insists. “It was a very important part of my recovery, actually – having that purpose and feeling like I was still me, which was so important.”
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