The Gold Standard: Must-Watch Australian TV Series That Changed the Game

Read Time: 2 Minutes

Remember racing home from school just in time to catch Home and Away before dinner?  Aussie TV isn’t just entertainment — it’s a memory, a mood, a mirror of our culture.

From soap operas that shaped generations to edge-of-your-seat dramas and satirical brilliance, Australian television has created stories that echo far beyond the outback.

Why Australian TV Hits Different

Forget Hollywood gloss. Aussie shows bring grit, realness, humor, and heart — often all in the same episode. They’re locally grown but globally loved, thanks to authentic storytelling, bold themes, and unforgettable characters.

 

The Best Australian TV Series of All Time

  1. Neighbours

“Everybody needs good Neighbours…”
This iconic soap ran for nearly 40 years and launched global stars like Margot Robbie and Kylie Minogue. It’s more than a series — it’s part of Australia’s cultural DNA.
Streaming: Amazon Freevee (UK/US)

  1. Underbelly

True crime meets gripping drama. Based on real criminal events, Underbelly rewrote the rulebook for Aussie TV thrillers.
Why Watch: Gritty, shocking, unforgettable.

  1. Blue Heelers

Before streaming was a thing, this police drama ruled prime-time. With heartfelt storylines and relatable characters, it was the soul of small-town justice.
Legacy: Over 500 episodes, countless awards.

  1. Kath & Kim

Australia’s most quotable comedy. Suburban satire at its finest, with a side of fondue and footy frenzies.
Highlight: It’s noice, it’s different, it’s unusual.

  1. Mystery Road

Cinematic, Indigenous-led, and emotionally powerful. A new-age crime series that blends stunning landscapes with social depth.
Streaming: ABC iView, Acorn TV

  1. Heartbreak High (2022)

A bold reboot with attitude. Raw, inclusive, and completely Gen Z, this revival brought a modern spin to a 90s classic.
Streaming: Netflix
Why Watch: Sharp dialogue, diverse cast, fierce energy.

  1. The Newsreader

Step back into the 1980s newsroom. Drama, politics, gender dynamics — all packed into a slick, smart, and stylish package.
Streaming: ABC iView, Stan

 

Why These Series Still Matter

These aren’t just shows. They’re time capsules. Cultural reflections. Launchpads for stars and social change.

From gritty urban crime to sun-kissed suburbia, these series helped define what it means to tell truly Australian stories — and the world is watching.

 

Where to Watch

Whether you’re in Australia or abroad, many of these gems are available on:

  • Stan
  • ABC iView
  • Netflix
  • Amazon Prime
  • Binge

 

The next time you’re scrolling endlessly for something to watch, don’t overlook the homegrown legends. Because the best stories aren’t always made in Hollywood — sometimes, they’re made in the heart of Melbourne, Sydney, or a tiny town you’ve never heard of.

Now over to you: Which Aussie series do you think is GOAT status? Tell us in the comments!

 

 

 

 

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