Looking for an interesting new series to watch?
Allow us to put Australia: An Unofficial History on your radar.
What is Australia: An Unofficial History about?
Australia: An Unofficial History is a three-part documentary series. It explores the social and cultural history of 1970s Australia through a collection of rarely seen films.
Narrated by acclaimed Australian actress Jacki Weaver, the docuseries showcases archival footage from the National Film and Sound Archive, uncovering productions by independent and renegade filmmakers who tackled controversial topics of the time.
These films shed light on key social movements, including Indigenous rights, feminism, LGBTI activism, and the shift away from the White Australia policy.
The docuseries also revisits forgotten documentaries on issues like postnatal depression and Valium addiction, providing a unique perspective on how Australia’s identity evolved.
Who’s in the docuseries?
As aforementioned, the docuseries is narrated by Oscar nominee Jacki Weaver.
She is joined by an impressive lineup of commentators, including filmmaker Phillip Noyce (best known for Rabbit-Proof Fence), cultural critics Benjamin Law and Jan Fran, comedian Zoë Coombs Marr, broadcaster Leila Gurruwiwi, actress Rachael Maza, and Indigenous activist Dr Gary Foley.
These experts react to the archival footage, offering modern perspectives on the social issues explored in the films.
The docuseries also features interviews with individuals who appeared in the original 1970s films, including Jacki herself.
Where can I watch Australia: An Unofficial History?
The new docuseries premieres on SBS and SBS On Demand on March 5, 2025, at 7.30pm.
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