The controversial reality television series Big Brother is set for a fresh re launch through Channel Nine from 2012. A contract was signed on September 9th by Nine. This is huge news for Nine, somewhat languishing in the ratings through 2011.

A 2012 version of the one-time ratings smash hit is destined for Channel Nine, the Herald Sun reported.

Amidst stiff competition from rival channel Ten, the bid for the reborn series tiltled Big Brother – Secrets, it is understood Channel Nine signed the deal today.

"I understand we are doing it,” a Nine source confirmed, to the Herald. Nine is certain to produce the show on a smaller scale than in the past.

While no information is available yet as to hosting duties or location, it’s expected the series will return to Queensland and partner with a theme park to ensure the house is as much a tourist destination as it is a television spectacle.

It is believed that Nine is also determined to let viewers know it won’t be the same old Big Brother, which slipped into ratings decline in its eighth and final season on Ten. The new show will be marketed as Big Brother: Secrets, every housemate has a secret."

Gretel Killeen hosted the first seven series of the show on Ten. Kyle Sandilands and Jackie O hosted Ten’s final series before it was cancelled in 2008.

Big Brother Australia is the Australian version of the international Big Brother reality television series. Big Brother Australia was produced from 2001 and ran for 7 years and 8 seasons before it was cancelled in 2008.

All eight seasons were produced by Endemol Southern Star and shown on Network Ten. The show was also known as the 'mother of reality television' in Australia, being the first prominent program of the genre.