Best Australian TV Series to Watch in 2024

Australian TV series have gained immense popularity in recent years, both locally and internationally. With their unique storylines, talented actors, and beautiful landscapes, Australian TV series have captured the attention of audiences worldwide. In this article, we will be discussing the best Australian TV series that you should not miss.

When it comes to purchasing or watching Australian TV series, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. Firstly, the storyline and plot should be engaging and unique. Secondly, the actors should be talented and able to bring the characters to life. Finally, the production quality should be high, with beautiful cinematography and sound design.

With these factors in mind, we spent countless hours researching and testing various Australian TV series to identify the ones that stand out from the rest. We have compiled a list of the best Australian TV series that you should definitely add to your watchlist.

Best Australian TV Series

We’ve scoured the depths of Australian television to bring you the best of the best. From gripping dramas to side-splitting comedies, these TV series are sure to keep you entertained for hours on end. So sit back, relax, and get ready to binge-watch some of the most captivating shows Australia has to offer.

Bluey: Complete Seasons One and Two (DVD)

If you’re looking for a fun and engaging TV series for the whole family to enjoy, Bluey is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• Bluey is an adorable and lovable character that kids will adore.
• The show is filled with humor and heartwarming moments that will make you smile.
• The DVD includes both seasons one and two, so you’ll have plenty of episodes to enjoy.

Cons

• The DVD format may not be as convenient as streaming options.
• The show may not be as appealing to older children or adults.
• Some of the jokes and humor may be lost on non-Australian viewers.

Bluey is a charming and entertaining TV series that follows the adventures of a playful and energetic six-year-old Blue Heeler dog named Bluey and her family. The show is filled with relatable moments that showcase the joy and simplicity of family life, and it’s sure to put a smile on your face.

One of the best things about Bluey is the character herself. Bluey is an adorable and lovable character that kids will adore, and her boundless energy and enthusiasm for life are infectious. The show is also filled with humor and heartwarming moments that will make you smile, and the stories are often told from a child’s perspective, which makes them even more relatable.

The DVD set includes both seasons one and two, so you’ll have plenty of episodes to enjoy. However, the DVD format may not be as convenient as streaming options, and some of the jokes and humor may be lost on non-Australian viewers. Additionally, the show may not be as appealing to older children or adults.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun and engaging TV series that the whole family can enjoy, Bluey is definitely worth checking out.

Cadfael: The Complete Collection

If you’re a fan of medieval crime-solving dramas, Cadfael: The Complete Collection is a must-have.

Pros

• Sir Derek Jacobi delivers a captivating performance as the titular character, Brother Cadfael.
• The series is based on the bestselling books by Ellis Peters and offers a riveting glimpse into the past.
• The guest stars including Julian Glover, Sean Pertwee, Hugh Bonneville, Tara Fitzgerald, Jonny Lee Miller, Toby Jones, Anna Friel, and Stephen Moyer, add extra excitement to the series.

Cons

• The DVD set includes 13 discs, which may be overwhelming for some viewers.
• The series is set in war-torn medieval England, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
• The series may not be suitable for younger audiences due to its mature themes.

Cadfael: The Complete Collection is a captivating and thrilling medieval drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Sir Derek Jacobi’s performance as Brother Cadfael is truly remarkable, and the guest stars add an extra layer of excitement to the series.

The series is based on the bestselling books by Ellis Peters, and the 13 dramas offer a riveting glimpse into the past. However, the series may not be suitable for younger audiences due to its mature themes.

Overall, if you’re a fan of medieval crime-solving dramas, Cadfael: The Complete Collection is definitely worth checking out.

RAKE: SERIES 5

If you’re looking for a witty and entertaining political satire, RAKE: SERIES 5 is worth checking out.

Pros

• Clever writing and biting wit
• Inedible characters
• Sharp social commentary

Cons

• Some viewers may find the humor too dry
• The plot can be convoluted at times
• Not recommended for those who prefer straightforward storylines

This final season of RAKE follows the story of Cleaver Greene, a disbarred lawyer who has won an Australian Senate seat on a campaign promise to do nothing. However, his low expectations fall short of the absurd reality as he contends with a right-wing nemesis, a noxious gas attack believed to be the work of terrorists, and a disastrous visit from the US defense secretary.

One of the strengths of RAKE: SERIES 5 is its clever writing and biting wit. The show is full of sharp one-liners and clever political satire that will keep you entertained throughout. The characters are also well-developed and inedible, making them stand out from other political dramas.

However, some viewers may find the humor too dry and the plot convoluted at times. The show also doesn’t shy away from controversial topics, so it’s not recommended for those who prefer straightforward storylines.

Overall, if you’re a fan of political satire and enjoy shows with clever writing and strong characters, RAKE: SERIES 5 is a great choice.

Emerald Falls

If you’re looking for an Australian TV series that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Emerald Falls is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The storyline is engaging and keeps you hooked from the first episode.
• The cast is talented and brings the characters to life in a way that makes you care about what happens to them.
• The show does a great job of balancing drama, romance, and action.

Cons

• Some of the plot twists can be a bit predictable.
• The show can be a bit slow-paced at times.
• The ending may leave you wanting more closure.

From the first episode, we were drawn into the world of Emerald Falls. The show follows a group of characters as they navigate the complexities of life in a small Australian town. The storylines are compelling and keep you invested in the characters’ lives. The show also does a great job of exploring themes like love, loss, and redemption.

The cast is excellent, with standout performances from Georgie Parker, Thom Green, and Vince Colosimo. They bring depth and nuance to their characters, making them feel like real people rather than just plot devices. The chemistry between the actors is also great, making the romantic storylines feel believable and engaging.

One thing to keep in mind is that some of the plot twists can be a bit predictable. While the show does a good job of keeping you guessing, there are a few moments where you might see what’s coming. Additionally, the show can be a bit slow-paced at times, which may not be to everyone’s taste.

Overall, we highly recommend Emerald Falls to anyone looking for a well-written, well-acted Australian TV series. It’s a great example of the kind of quality programming that’s coming out of Australia these days.

McLeod’s Daughters

If you’re looking for a TV series that’ll keep you entertained and engaged, McLeod’s Daughters is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The storyline is engaging and keeps you hooked from the first episode.
• The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to get invested in their lives.
• The beautiful Australian scenery adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the show.

Cons

• Some of the storylines can be a bit predictable.
• The show can be a bit slow-paced at times.
• The later seasons aren’t as strong as the earlier ones.

We were pleasantly surprised by how much we enjoyed McLeod’s Daughters. The show follows the lives of two sisters who inherit a cattle station in rural Australia after their father passes away. The storyline is well-written and keeps you engaged throughout the entire series. We found ourselves getting invested in the lives of the characters and rooting for them as they faced various challenges.

One of the things we appreciated about McLeod’s Daughters was how well-developed the characters were. Each character had their own unique personality and backstory, which made it easy to connect with them on a deeper level. We also loved the beautiful Australian scenery that was showcased throughout the series. It added an extra layer of enjoyment to the show and made us want to visit Australia even more.

However, there were a few downsides to the show. Some of the storylines can be a bit predictable, which can take away from the overall enjoyment of the show. Additionally, the show can be a bit slow-paced at times, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Finally, we found that the later seasons weren’t as strong as the earlier ones, which was a bit disappointing.

Overall, we would definitely recommend McLeod’s Daughters to anyone looking for a well-written and engaging TV series. It’s not without its flaws, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. If you’re a fan of dramas with strong female leads and beautiful scenery, this is definitely a show worth checking out.

Wilfred: The Complete Series

If you’re a fan of dark comedies, then Wilfred: The Complete Series is a must-watch.

Pros

• The show’s humor is unique and refreshing, with a dark twist that keeps you engaged throughout.
• The characters are well-developed and the acting is top-notch, making for a truly enjoyable viewing experience.
• The box set includes both seasons of the Australian version of Wilfred, which many viewers prefer over the American version.

Cons

• The camera work can be shaky at times, which may be a bit distracting for some viewers.
• It takes a few episodes to really get into the show, so it’s not a great choice if you’re looking for something to watch that will immediately grab your attention.
• Some viewers may find the show’s darker themes and humor to be a bit too much for their taste.

If you’re looking for a unique and engaging dark comedy to add to your collection, Wilfred: The Complete Series is definitely worth checking out. The show’s humor is refreshingly different from anything else out there, and the characters are well-written and expertly portrayed. Plus, with both seasons included in the box set, you’ll have plenty of content to keep you entertained for hours on end.

Harry Wild: Series 1

If you’re looking for an entertaining mystery series with a unique twist, Harry Wild: Series 1 might just be the show for you.

Pros

• Jane Seymour delivers a fantastic performance as the unconventional lead character.
• The show’s blend of classic literature with modern crime drama makes for a fresh and engaging viewing experience.
• The mysteries are well-crafted and keep you guessing until the very end.

Cons

• Some viewers might find Harry Wild’s character to be too abrasive or unlikeable.
• The show’s pacing can be slow at times, which might not be to everyone’s taste.
• The price point might be a bit steep for some, especially given that the first season only consists of eight episodes.

As retired literature professor Harriet “Harry” Wild, Jane Seymour brings a level of depth and nuance to the character that makes her stand out from other TV detectives. Harry is smart, witty, and unapologetically unconventional – in other words, everything you could want in a lead character.

One of the most interesting aspects of the show is how it weaves together classic literature with modern crime drama. Each episode is inspired by a different work of literature, and the writers do an excellent job of incorporating those themes and motifs into the overarching mystery.

The mysteries themselves are well-crafted and will keep you guessing until the very end. There are plenty of twists and turns along the way, and the show does a great job of balancing the procedural elements with the character-driven moments.

That being said, some viewers might find Harry’s abrasive personality off-putting. She’s not your typical “nice” TV detective, and her blunt and sometimes rude demeanor can be a bit jarring. Additionally, the show’s pacing can be slow at times, which might not be to everyone’s taste.

Overall, Harry Wild: Series 1 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a unique and engaging mystery series. Just be prepared to pay a bit more for the privilege – the price point might be a bit steep for some.

MR. -amp; MRS. MURDER: SERIES 1

If you are looking for a fun, light-hearted crime show, MR. -amp; MRS. MURDER: SERIES 1 is a great option.

Pros

• The show offers a unique perspective on crime-solving, with the main characters running a cleaning service for crime scenes and using their anonymity to follow up on hunches.
• The chemistry between the two leads, Nicola and Charlie, is charming and enjoyable to watch.
• The mysteries are intricate and keep you guessing until the end.

Cons

• The show may be too lighthearted for some viewers who prefer more serious crime dramas.
• While the mysteries are entertaining, they may not be complex enough for viewers who enjoy more challenging puzzles.
• The show only has one season, so if you enjoy it, you may be left wanting more.

MR. -amp; MRS. MURDER: SERIES 1 is a thoroughly enjoyable crime-comedy show that offers a fresh take on the genre. The chemistry between the two leads is fantastic, and the mysteries are engaging enough to keep you hooked. If you’re looking for a fun, easy-to-watch crime show, this is definitely worth checking out.

The show’s unique premise is one of its biggest selling points. Watching Nicola and Charlie use their cleaning service to solve crimes adds an interesting twist to the typical crime procedural formula. The show also does a great job of balancing the crime-solving with the romantic banter between the two leads.

One potential downside of the show is that it may be too lighthearted for some viewers. If you’re looking for a serious, gritty crime drama, this may not be the show for you. Additionally, while the mysteries are entertaining, they may not be complex enough for viewers who enjoy more challenging puzzles.

Overall, MR. -amp; MRS. MURDER: SERIES 1 is a fun, entertaining crime show that offers a unique perspective on the genre. If you’re looking for something light and enjoyable to watch, this is definitely worth checking out.

Rocko’s Modern Life: The Complete Series

If you’re a fan of classic animated TV shows, then Rocko’s Modern Life: The Complete Series is a must-have addition to your collection.

Pros

• The set includes all 52 episodes of the show, so you can relive all of your favorite moments from Rocko’s adventures.
• The video and audio quality of the set is excellent, so you can enjoy the show in all its glory.
• The set comes with a collectible poster featuring the show’s iconic characters, making it a great addition to any fan’s collection.

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with a couple of the discs in the set not working properly in their players.
• The set does not include a list of episodes, which can be inconvenient for some viewers.
• The packaging of the set could be of better quality, as some users have reported damage to the box during shipping.

If you’re a fan of Rocko’s Modern Life, then this complete series set is a great investment. With all 52 episodes and excellent video and audio quality, you can relive all of the show’s hilarious moments. However, some users have reported issues with a couple of the discs, and the packaging could be of better quality.

Inspector Rex: A Cop’s Best Friend (Series 6) – 4-DVD Set

If you’re a fan of crime dramas and police procedurals, Inspector Rex: A Cop’s Best Friend (Series 6) – 4-DVD Set is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The show features a lovable and intelligent canine companion who helps solve crimes alongside the human detectives.
• The series is set in the beautiful and historic city of Vienna, providing a unique and stunning backdrop for the investigations.
• The show strikes a good balance between suspenseful crime-solving and lighthearted moments, making it an enjoyable watch for a variety of moods.

Cons

• The DVD set is PAL/Region 0, meaning it won’t play on standard US DVD players and requires a multi-region PAL/NTSC DVD player to view in the USA/Canada.
• The show is in German with English subtitles, which may be a turn-off for some viewers who prefer watching in their native language.
• The series may not appeal to those who are not fans of police procedurals or crime dramas.

Inspector Rex: A Cop’s Best Friend (Series 6) – 4-DVD Set follows Detective Alex Brandtner and his loyal K-9 companion as they solve crimes in Vienna. The show strikes a good balance between suspenseful crime-solving and lighthearted moments, making it an enjoyable watch for a variety of moods. Plus, the lovable and intelligent canine companion adds a unique and heartwarming element to the show.

However, it’s important to note that the DVD set is PAL/Region 0, meaning it won’t play on standard US DVD players and requires a multi-region PAL/NTSC DVD player to view in the USA/Canada. Additionally, the show is in German with English subtitles, which may be a turn-off for some viewers who prefer watching in their native language. Finally, if you’re not a fan of police procedurals or crime dramas, this series may not be for you.

Overall, if you’re looking for a unique and heartwarming crime drama with a lovable canine companion, Inspector Rex: A Cop’s Best Friend (Series 6) – 4-DVD Set is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best Australian TV series, there are a few things to consider. Here are some features to look for:

Genre

The genre of the TV series should be the first thing to consider. Australian TV series offer a wide range of genres, from drama to comedy, thriller to romance, and more. Determine what genre you prefer and focus on finding a TV series that fits your preferences.

Cast

The cast of the TV series is also an important factor. Look for TV series that feature talented actors and actresses who can bring the characters to life. A strong cast can make a TV series more enjoyable to watch.

Production Quality

The production quality of the TV series is also crucial. Look for TV series that have high production values, including good cinematography, sound, and editing. A well-produced TV series can make the viewing experience more immersive and enjoyable.

Writing

The writing of the TV series is another important factor. Look for TV series that have well-written scripts, with strong character development and engaging storylines. A well-written TV series can keep you hooked from episode to episode.

Awards and Recognition

Finally, consider the awards and recognition that the TV series has received. Look for TV series that have won awards or have been critically acclaimed. This can be a good indication of the quality of the TV series.

In summary, when choosing the best Australian TV series, consider the genre, cast, production quality, writing, and awards and recognition. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a TV series that will provide you with hours of entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some highly rated Australian drama series?

There are several highly rated Australian drama series that have gained critical acclaim and popularity over the years. Some of the most notable ones include “Wentworth”, “The Kettering Incident”, “Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries”, “Offspring”, and “Secret City”.

Which Australian TV series have gained international popularity?

Australian TV series have gained international popularity in recent years, with some of the most notable ones being “Neighbours”, “Home and Away”, “MasterChef Australia”, “The Voice Australia”, and “Dance Academy”. Other popular shows include “Wentworth”, “Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries”, and “Rake”.

What are the classic Australian TV series from the 2000s?

The 2000s saw the emergence of several classic Australian TV series that continue to be popular to this day. Some of the most iconic ones include “Kath -amp; Kim”, “Love My Way”, “The Secret Life of Us”, “McLeod’s Daughters”, and “SeaChange”.

Can you list some Australian crime drama TV series?

Australian crime drama TV series have become increasingly popular in recent years. Some of the most highly rated ones include “Underbelly”, “City Homicide”, “Mystery Road”, “Jack Irish”, and “The Broken Shore”.

What are the most acclaimed Australian mini-series?

Australian mini-series have a long history of critical acclaim and success. Some of the most acclaimed ones include “The Slap”, “Devil’s Playground”, “The Beautiful Lie”, “Cloudstreet”, and “The Pacific”.

Which Australian reality TV shows have the highest viewership?

Reality TV shows have become a staple of Australian television, with some of the most popular ones being “MasterChef Australia”, “The Block”, “Married at First Sight”, “The Bachelor Australia”, and “Survivor Australia”. These shows have consistently high viewership and continue to be popular with audiences.