Australian dramas have earned a reputation for their unique storytelling, engaging plots, and complex characters. While international audiences are familiar with shows like Wentworth and Neighbours, there are many hidden gems in Australian television that deserve much more attention. These underrated Australian dramas bring forth fresh perspectives, exciting plots, and emotional depth that often go unnoticed. If you’re looking to explore some lesser-known Australian series, here’s a list of underrated gems you absolutely need to watch.
1. Underrated Australian Dramas: Rake (2010–2018)
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Starring: Richard Roxburgh, Kate Box, Damien Garvey
Rake is a brilliant legal comedy-drama that follows the chaotic life of Cleaver Greene, a criminal defense lawyer who finds himself entangled in his own legal and personal problems. Played by the talented Richard Roxburgh, Cleaver is a brilliant but deeply flawed character who’s a master of his craft, yet struggles with his moral compass and personal demons. The series is witty, often darkly comedic, and provides a fresh take on the courtroom genre.
Despite critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase, Rake remains underrated internationally. Its sharp dialogue, complex characters, and blend of humor with serious issues make it one of the most unique and well-crafted shows in Australian TV. If you enjoy intelligent, character-driven stories with plenty of humor and heart, Rake is a must-watch.
2. Underrated Australian Dramas: Redfern Now (2013–2014)
Genre: Drama, Social Issues
Starring: Deborah Mailman, Wayne Blair, Russell Dykstra
Redfern Now is a critically acclaimed drama that explores the lives of individuals living in Redfern, an inner-city neighborhood in Sydney. The show touches on themes of race, class, and identity while exploring how systemic issues affect the characters’ lives. Each episode features a different story, focusing on the struggles of the local community and their experiences with the justice system, mental health, and personal relationships.
Despite its powerful performances and important social commentary, Redfern Now remains underappreciated outside Australia. The show is raw, real, and incredibly insightful, offering an important perspective on modern Australia. If you’re interested in dramas that tackle social issues with depth and sensitivity, Redfern Now is a hidden gem that will leave a lasting impact.
Watch Redfern Now on ABC iView
3. Underrated Australian Dramas: The Code (2014–2016)
Genre: Political Thriller, Drama
Starring: Ashley Zukerman, Dan Wyllie, Lucy Lawless
The Code is a thrilling political drama that follows two brothers—an idealistic journalist and a tech-savvy hacker—as they uncover a conspiracy that threatens national security. The show’s storyline is fast-paced and gripping, delving into themes of political corruption, surveillance, and the power of the media in the digital age. With strong performances from Ashley Zukerman and a standout role by Lucy Lawless, The Code keeps you on the edge of your seat with every episode.
While the show received praise for its writing and direction, The Code didn’t get the international attention it deserved. Its intelligent narrative and timely exploration of modern issues make it a perfect choice for fans of political thrillers and mysteries. If you enjoy shows that combine technology, intrigue, and social commentary, The Code is an underrated gem worth watching.
4. Underrated Australian Dramas: Love Child (2014–2017)
Genre: Drama, Historical
Starring: Jessica Marais, Mandy McElhinney, Jonathan LaPaglia
Love Child is a historical drama set in the 1960s and 1970s that follows the lives of the residents of a maternity home in Sydney. The show explores social issues such as abortion, women’s rights, and the stigma surrounding unmarried mothers during that time. With a talented cast, led by Jessica Marais, Love Child delivers a strong emotional punch while offering a window into Australia’s unique historical and cultural context.
Despite its insightful narrative and well-drawn characters, Love Child remains underrated in the international drama scene. The show effectively captures the complexities of the era while providing an authentic portrayal of women’s experiences. If you love period dramas with a focus on social issues and character-driven stories, Love Child is a must-watch.
5. Underrated Australian Dramas: City Homicide (2007–2010)
Genre: Crime, Police Procedural
Starring: Aaron Pedersen, Nadine Garner, John Howard
City Homicide is a gripping police procedural that focuses on a team of detectives in Melbourne as they solve complex murder cases. The series stands out with its well-developed characters, dark tones, and a blend of emotional and intellectual engagement. The writing is sharp, and the show balances the intricacies of the cases with the personal struggles of the detectives, making it an emotionally engaging crime drama.
Although it was popular during its airing in Australia, City Homicide didn’t receive the international recognition it deserved. With its excellent direction, compelling storylines, and strong performances, this is one of the best crime dramas Australia has produced. If you love murder mysteries and crime-solving shows, City Homicide is a hidden gem that should be on your radar.
6. Underrated Australian Dramas: Secret City (2016–2019)
Genre: Thriller, Political, Drama
Starring: Anna Torv, Damon Herriman, Mark Leonard Winter
Secret City is a thrilling political drama set in Canberra, where a young journalist named Harriet Dunkley uncovers a conspiracy involving corruption, espionage, and political intrigue at the highest levels of government. The series tackles serious political issues while also featuring suspense-filled moments that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Despite being well-crafted and critically praised, Secret City remains an underrated series internationally. Anna Torv delivers a strong performance, and the show’s mix of political drama and thriller elements makes it a compelling watch. If you enjoy political thrillers with complex characters and an intricate plot, Secret City is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss.
Conclusion
Australian dramas are a treasure trove of storytelling that often get overlooked by international audiences. From crime thrillers to historical dramas, these underrated gems offer unique perspectives on social issues, human relationships, and the complexities of life. Whether you’re a fan of crime, drama, or historical fiction, these Australian TV shows will provide an enriching viewing experience. Don’t miss out on discovering these hidden gems!
If you’ve watched any of these underrated Australian dramas or have other recommendations, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
