The new Seven Network renovation series My Reno Rules has just premiered, and it’s already winning hearts with its relatable cast of “real Aussies” — far from the influencer-heavy line-ups we’re used to seeing on renovation TV.

Instead of chasing auction profits, these four teams of two are battling it out in two rundown 1970s houses in Bulleen, Melbourne.

WhatsApp Channel Banner

Their goal? Impress the judges, win the $100,000 cash prize, and help create two dream homes that will be given away to lucky viewer families in a live grand finale.

Here’s everything you need to know about the contestants shaking up the 2026 renovation TV game.

House 1: Emma & Michelle vs Nathan & Julia

Emma (33) & Michelle (56) – Queensland Mother-Daughter Duo
This fiery mother-daughter pair from Queensland describe themselves as “Maltese terriers” — small but full of fight and big personality.

Emma runs her own interior design, property development, and creative studio, while Michelle works in the hair and beauty industry and has been hands-on with multiple home builds over the years.

Emma & Michelle on Reno RUles

They’re bringing high energy, serious style, and a “luxe, bold and bougie” aesthetic to the competition.

Expect dramatic “wow factor” moments as they push for the biggest impact rooms. Their motto? Loud, proud, and unapologetically impactful. Will their confident approach divide the judges or steal the show?

Nathan (34) & Julia (34) – Victorian Busy Parents
Married couple Nathan and Julia are keen renovators from Victoria with three young daughters. Nathan works as an electrician, while Julia is a stay-at-home mum who has picked up multiple trades through past renovation projects. They thrive under pressure and see the $100k prize as a true “game-changer” for their family.

Their motivation is deeply personal: wiping out debt, easing cost-of-living pressure, and creating more quality time with their kids. In the premiere, Julia famously declared that “sometimes you have to be a manipulator” when it comes to strategy — setting the tone for some early-game tension.

House 2: Franky & Isaac vs Mitch & Shaz

Franky (38) & Isaac (23) – Melbourne Best Mates & Self-Proclaimed Underdogs

These two mates from Melbourne are the ultimate feel-good story of the series. Franky runs an audio-visual business, and Isaac (who has worked with him for years) is a junior foreman.

They openly admit they have zero design experience, but they’re making up for it with endless enthusiasm, humour, and that classic Greek generosity of spirit.

They’re already calling themselves the underdogs and hoping the show will help them break into the tough property market as first-home buyers.

Their strength lies in teamwork, laughs, and a can-do attitude that had them jumping in to help the other team during early setbacks. Can raw determination beat polished experience?

Mitch (34) & Shaz (34) – Queensland Newlyweds & Parents

Newlyweds Mitch and Shaz from Queensland are competing for their 13-year-old son, Lenny. They’re brutally honest about their financial reality — living week-to-week with just $65 left after bills at times. They’ve even been selling belongings and hitting thrift shops just to get by.

Mitch works as a landscape project manager, while Shaz runs her own interior design business. This practical-creative combo gives them a strong edge on site. Their “why” is simple and powerful: securing a brighter, more stable future for their young family. Many viewers are already connecting with their raw, relatable struggle against the cost-of-living crisis.

Why These Contestants Feel Different

Unlike many renovation shows that feature polished influencers, My Reno Rules has deliberately cast everyday Australians with genuine stakes — whether it’s paying off family debt, breaking into the property market, or simply wanting more time with kids.

Early episodes have already delivered drama (budget blowouts, strategic admissions, and DIY disasters), but the heart of the show lies in these contestants’ real stories and the feel-good twist of giving away fully renovated, furnished, and landscaped homes.

The teams are split across the two neighbouring properties, forced to negotiate room allocations and budget splits each week — adding an extra layer of tension and teamwork.

Which team are you backing so far?

Drop your predictions in the comments — will the bold mother-daughter duo dominate with luxe style, or will the underdogs Franky & Isaac pull off a surprise victory with pure heart?

Tune into My Reno Rules on Channel 7 and 7plus, Tuesdays at 7:30pm, and follow @myrenorulesau on Instagram for behind-the-scenes updates.