The Ultimate Guide to Must-Watch Australian TV Shows on US Netflix

Summary

Australia's TV programs on Netflix are high-quality and gaining international success despite not being intended for a global audience.

Netflix provides a broad array of Australian shows that cater to various preferences and interests, including comedic mockumentaries, family-friendly fantasies, animated adventures, dramas, mysteries, teen series, and documentaries.

Australia may be geographically distant, but thanks to Netflix, its exceptional TV programs are captivating audiences worldwide. Despite not being renowned for producing a large quantity of content, Australia compensates with high-quality productions. The following list showcases modest-budget shows that were not originally intended for global viewership, yet they have achieved international acclaim due to their unique storylines, genuine humor, and thrilling dramas.

As Netflix continuously updates its catalogue, Australian dramas and mysteries have been replaced on the platform by family-friendly favorites as of late. Below, we present the top Australian TV shows currently available on Netflix.

Lunatics (2019)

Lunatics, fronted by Australian comedian Chris Lilley, is a fascinating and underrated comedy series on Netflix. Lilley, known for his controversial style and mockumentary approach, showcases his talent by portraying six distinct and eccentric characters. However, it must be noted that some of these characterizations can be considered problematic, making Lunatics a show that requires careful observation.

The New Legends Of Monkey (2018-)

The Monkey King legend has been adapted in various forms of media, with The New Legends of Monkey serving as a remake of a Japanese series from the 1970s. In this series, a monk embarks on a quest to locate sacred scrolls alongside Monkey and two other ancient gods, who have been largely forgotten by the general population.

Although marketed as a family-friendly fantasy with nominations for children's programming awards in New Zealand and Australia, The New Legends of Monkey does contain darker moments and violence that may not be suitable for younger viewers. This imaginative series presents a unique interpretation of a classic hero's journey, evoking memories of other fantasy shows such as Xena Warrior Princess, Hercules, and Beastmaster, all of which were also filmed in New Zealand and offered fresh takes on mythical tales.

The Deep (2015-)

The Deep, an animated series, is a collaboration between a Canadian and Australian broadcasting company. It is exclusively available for streaming on Netflix. The storyline revolves around a family who are the descendants of a seafaring tribe, embarking on a mission to unravel the enigmatic secrets concealed in the depths of the ocean. The Deep incorporates elements from real-life oceanic creatures and occurrences, resulting in an enthralling adventure suitable for all age groups.

However, Netflix only provides access to a specific set of episodes at a time. Presently, only season 3 of The Deep is available for streaming, despite being situated in the midst of the broader narrative arc. Nevertheless, The Deep remains one of the finest Australian animated series available on Netflix.

The Unlisted (2019-)

The Unlisted, one of the top Australian series on Netflix, targets a teenage audience and revolves around a gripping storyline. A group of teenagers stumbles upon a secret plot orchestrated by a government organization that intends to manipulate and control them.

In essence, it shares similarities with the American film Disturbing Behavior, albeit with a slightly lighter tone. Teens who haven't been implanted with a tracking device, enabling their movements to be monitored, refer to themselves as "the unlisted" and strive to reveal the truth to the world. Throughout the series, the focus primarily lies on twin Indian-Australian boys (played by Ved and Vrund Rao), but it gradually introduces their allies, including a popular gamer who becomes a potential threat to the group's anonymity.

The Bureau Of Magical Things (2018-2021)

Renowned Australian children's television producer and writer, Jonathan M. Shiff, has a remarkable talent for creating shows that captivate not only young viewers but also a wider audience. His shows, infused with fantasy elements such as mermaids or, in this case, fairies, always delve into real-life issues faced by teenagers and their families. Some of Shiff's notable Australian creations include Ocean Girl, H2O: Just Add Water, and Lightning Point, among others.

Shiff's latest endeavor, The Bureau of Magical Things, ventures away from the beach setting and delves deeper into the realm of urban fantasy. In this world, the human and magical realms coexist, but magical creatures are an endangered species working tirelessly to maintain their secrecy. When a young human woman accidentally discovers a magical book, she embarks on an exhilarating journey, delving into the intricacies of magic.

The Letdown (2016-2019)

The Letdown, a hilarious comedy centered around the challenges of being a new mother, stands out as one of the top Australian shows available on Netflix. Starring Alison Bell as Audrey, a struggling new mom who seeks solace in a support group, the series offers a funny yet honest exploration of the ups and downs of motherhood, from pregnancy to abortion.

Not only does Bell shine as the lead actress, but she also co-created and co-wrote the show alongside Sarah Sheller. The talented duo even took on the role of directing an episode in the show's second season. The exceptional quality of The Letdown was recognized at the Australian Academy of Television Arts Awards, where it won Best Comedy for its first season and the pilot episode earned the award for Best Screenplay.

Izzy’s Koala World (2020-)

In addition to children's scripted series and comedies, Netflix offers a variety of Australian shows, including reality TV programs and docuseries. This particular docuseries is perfect for reality TV fans who prefer a show without dramatic elements, or for those who would like a program suitable for the whole family.

The series revolves around the life of young Izzy Bee and her family, who reside on an island near the coast of Queensland, Australia. They operate a clinic from their home, specializing in the care of injured or sick koalas. Throughout the series, the spotlight is on several of these same koalas, giving viewers a comprehensive understanding of the tremendous effort required to rehabilitate these fascinating wild animals. Given Australia's unique wildlife, watching koalas in action is an enjoyable experience.

Heartbreak High (1994-1999), (2022)

Heartbreak High, originally a 1990s dramatic series, revolved around the events at a high school. It can be compared to the Canadian series Degrassi, as it started as one series and later expanded into a sequel. Interestingly, Heartbreak High originated from the movie The Heartbreak Kid.

In 2022, Netflix launched a contemporary reboot of the show. This new rendition continues to delve into the lives of students and teachers at Hartley High, offering a fresh take on the dramedy that unfolds in a high school environment. Both versions of the series can be streamed on Netflix and are highly recommended for viewing.

The InBESTigators (2019)

In this Australian TV series, a group of fifth-grade children embarks on exciting adventures to uncover mysteries in their neighborhood. This hilarious mockumentary, consisting of two seasons, is currently available for streaming on Netflix. Led by the perceptive Maudie, the team collaborates seamlessly to solve intriguing puzzles in every episode. Offering a delightful and family-oriented experience, this series presents a refreshing take on detective stories without the intense grit of other crime shows found on Netflix.

Stateless (2020)

Stateless, an Australian miniseries, was later added to the U.S. Netflix lineup a few months after its original release. The show revolves around individuals trapped in an immigration detention center, with notable performances from Yvonne Strahovski, Cate Blanchett, and Jai Courtney. This gripping drama, consisting of six episodes, delves into the interconnected lives of a cult escapee, a refugee, an office worker, and a bureaucrat, each with their own unique encounters within the detention center. Exclusively available for streaming on Netflix.

H2O: Just Add Water (2006-2010)

H2O: Just Add Water is an entertaining and family-friendly show that follows three teenage girls from Australia. These girls face the challenge of balancing high school life while keeping their mermaid identity hidden from their peers. Despite facing bullies in school, the friends strive to lead normal lives while using their magical abilities to aid sea creatures in distress. This Australian series gained popularity worldwide on Nickelodeon before joining Netflix, and it has even spawned two spinoffs: the live-action Mako Mermaids and an animated series set in the same enchanting universe.

Glitch (2015-2019)

Glitch is an Australian TV series that takes place in the fictional town of Yoorana. In this intriguing show, seven individuals mysteriously come back to life after being deceased for an extended period. As the local policeman uncovers that his own deceased wife is among the "risen," he embarks on a dangerous journey to unravel the secrets behind their resurrection, even putting his own life in jeopardy.

While Glitch shares similarities with The Returned, it delves deeper into a scientific explanation rather than supernatural elements. Regardless, the show manages to captivate viewers with its eerie and unsettling atmosphere.

Tidelands (2018)

Tidelands, an Australian web TV series, was originally released by Netflix in late 2018. The plot centers around Cal McTeer, a former criminal who comes back to her hometown of Orphelin Bay, a small fishing village.

When the body of a local fisherman is discovered on the beach, Cal takes it upon herself to investigate the peculiar residents of the town - a dangerous group known as "Tidelanders," who are half-sirens and half-humans. What secrets does this town hold? Watch the series to uncover the mysteries. Fans of unique interpretations of siren and mermaid mythology will be intrigued by this show.

Wentworth (2013-2021)

Wentworth is a modern adaptation of the Australian soap opera Prisoner, which originally aired from 1979-1986 and took place in the fictional women's prison, Wentworth Detention Center. This contemporary series follows inmate Bea Smith's journey in prison and her unexpected path to becoming a dominant figure in the prison's hierarchy, reminiscent of the show Orange Is the New Black.

Upon its debut, Wentworth immediately became a hit, with its first episode becoming the most-watched premiere of an Australian drama series in Foxtel history. Following its success, the series was licensed to multiple countries before being acquired by Netflix, where it was renamed Wentworth Prison.

Secret City (2016-2019)

Fans of House of Cards will undoubtedly find pleasure in Secret City, an Australian political thriller abundant with clandestine dealings, deceit, homicide, and treachery. This gripping series is adapted from the acclaimed novels The Marmalade Files and The Mandarin Code, penned by Chris Uhlmann and Steve Lewis, making it a must-watch for all avid readers.

Secret City first debuted on Netflix a few years back, garnering substantial attention. The saga reached its climactic conclusion with the recent release of Secret City: Under the Eagle on March 6, 2019, deviating from the original source material and ensuring a riveting end to the Australian series.

Surviving Summer (2022-)

Surviving Summer, currently available on Netflix, is an exhilarating Australian television series. Set in Victoria, Australia, the show follows Summer, a young girl who must navigate her new surroundings and finds herself forming deep connections with the people she encounters.

Over the course of ten episodes, the first two seasons of Surviving Summer showcase Summer's journey of learning to surf and competing alongside her friends, all aspiring to reach the professional circuit. Balancing the elements of teenage drama and the intensity of a competitive sport, the series captivates viewers with its seamless blend of entertainment.

In Season 2, Surviving Summer introduces a fresh wave of characters, injecting a new energy into the established dynamics of the first season.

Pine Gap (2018)

Pine Gap, an Australian miniseries released in 2018, first premiered on Netflix and later aired on ABC. The series boasts a talented cast, with notable actors such as Steve Toussaint, known for his role as Lord Corlys Velaryon in HBO's House of the Dragon.

This thrilling international drama explores the realms of politics, intrigue, and betrayal throughout its six episodes, offering a captivating and concise storyline that is perfect for fans seeking a binge-worthy experience in a short amount of time.

Tales By Light (2015-2018)

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" Tales By Light is a captivating Australian documentary series produced by National Geographic that follows the adventurous journeys of a group of photographers as they strive to capture extraordinary images of the natural world. All three seasons of this remarkable series are currently accessible for streaming on Netflix.

With a concise collection of just twelve episodes spanning across its three seasons, Tales By Light offers a captivating and awe-inspiring viewing experience. Fans of nature documentaries will undoubtedly be impressed by this remarkable Australian docuseries available on Netflix."

Kath And Kim (2002-2007)

Kath and Kim, a renowned Australian comedy, features Jane Turner and Gina Riley in the iconic roles of the mother and daughter. With their contrasting personalities, they navigate through life in the suburbs.

All seasons of the beloved sitcom, along with the accompanying television film and the theatrically released feature film Kath and Kimderella, are available for streaming on Netflix US. Even after the main series concluded, the film premiered, making it a must-watch for American viewers seeking a taste of Australian humor. Netflix acknowledges the show's popularity and has even released an anniversary special on its platform.

Dive Club (2021-)

Dive Club, an Australian teen drama released in 2021, shares many similarities with Pretty Little Liars. The story takes a twist when a group of friends and divers realize that one of their comrades has vanished, leading to a frantic search for their lost friend.

With a captivating blend of heart, drama, and suspense, Dive Club keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as the mystery unfolds surrounding the missing diver. While existing fans eagerly await news of a possible second season (as it has not been canceled since its 2021 debut), newcomers can enjoy this thrilling Australian drama on Netflix at present.

Overall, the Australian shows on Netflix offer a variety of comedies, dramas, and children's programming that will satisfy any Netflix subscriber.