The Andrews Government is not happy, Jan, after it was revealed that Hunted Australia did not apply for a permit before filming inside Victoria’s Metro train network.

The Endemol Shine-produced series follows 18 “fugitives” who go on the run and try to avoid being captured by a highly trained team of ex-cops and intelligence agents.

The inaugural series was filmed in Victoria in early 2022, and featured several scenes filmed at Flinders Street Station and inside Metro train carriages.

hunted train station
The Andrews Government is not happy, Jan, after it was revealed that Hunted Australia did not apply for a permit before filming inside the Victoria’s Metro train network. Source: Ten.

While Hunted was backed by Visit Victoria, the same government that bares the tourism agency has publicly called out producers for bypassing red-tape regulations.

Public Transport Minister Ben Carroll told the Herald Sun that “appropriate action” has been taken to make sure that similar breaches don’t happen again.

A Metro Trains Spokesperson Speaks Out Against Hunted Australia

A number of sources “familiar with discussions” told the publication that the powers at be were “furious” over the breach.

A Metro Trains spokeswoman has also condemned Hunted for its practices, which she deemed “not acceptable”.

“The Hunted production company did not apply for a permit prior to filming on Metro’s network,” she said. “This is not acceptable as Metro has strict protocols in place for filming which should have been followed to ensure the safety of staff and passengers.”

hunted flinders st station
A Metro Trains spokeswoman deemed Hunted Australia‘s practices “not acceptable”. Source: Ten.

Metro also revealed that they have written to production to “remind them of their obligation” to apply for filming permits.

The company’s permit process is currently under review to ensure proper protections are in place. However, the company confirmed that no CCTV from their premises was given to production.

Hunted Australia Is Already Casting for 2023

Despite the brouhaha, Hunted Australia will go ahead with a second season in 2023.

The general public can now apply to be fugitives on the show, giving up their phones and trying to disappear without a trace while being hunted by a highly-skilled intelligence and surveillance team for 21-days.

hunted australia fugitives
Hunted Australia is already casting for 2023. Source: Ten.

However, don’t stress if you don’t have a wingman/woman to apply alongside.

Hunted Australia 2023 is also accepting registrations from solo applicants, too.

Filming is slated to take place between February 20 and March 15 next year.

Want even more goss? Listen to episode 207 of the So Dramatic! podcast with Megan Pustetto below!

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