Australia has produced several different TV shows. These shows come from many different genres. They have emerged over the last 3 decades. Many of them are in the crime or drama genre, but also in comedy. Here are the top 7 Australian TV shows in the 1980s to watch now.
7. Neighbours (1985 – Present)
No discussion of 1980s Australian television would be complete without mentioning “Neighbours.” Premiering in 1985, this soap opera quickly became a staple of Australian (and later British) TV.
https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-4474055489327117 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Set in the fictional Ramsay Street, “Neighbours” delves into the lives, loves, and dramas of its residents. The show introduced the world to stars like Kylie Minogue, Jason Donovan, and Guy Pearce.
It has become a beloved series, and it continues to be popular more than three decades later.
6. The Flying Doctors (1986 – 1992)
“The Flying Doctors” highlighted the heroic efforts of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. They brought medical aid to the remote Outback communities of Australia. This drama series highlighted the challenges and triumphs of both the doctors and the people they served. It combined action and drama. It also included a touch of romance. The series offered viewers a captivating look at life in some of Australia’s most isolated areas.
5. A Country Practice (1981 – 1993)
Another long-running series, “A Country Practice,” provided an engaging portrayal of life in the rural town of Wandin Valley. The show blended medical drama with personal stories. It tackled significant social issues of the time.
These issues included environmental conservation and mental health. Its memorable characters and heartfelt storylines earned it a special place in viewers’ hearts.
4. Prisoner (1979 – 1986)
Known as “Prisoner: Cell Block H” internationally. This gritty drama explored the lives of female inmates in Wentworth Detention Centre.
https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-4474055489327117 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});It was breaking ground with its raw depiction of prison life. It explores themes like loyalty, redemption, and the struggle for power. “Prisoner” was ahead of its time.
The show’s strong character development and compelling story arcs made it a landmark series in Australian television history.
Find more here: Prisoner (TV Series 1979–1986)
3. Hey Hey It’s Saturday (1971 – 1999)
While it began in the 1970s, “Hey Hey It’s Saturday” became a defining variety show in the 1980s. Hosted by Daryl Somers, this lively program featured comedy sketches, live music performances, and various entertaining segments.
The show had irreverent humour. It also featured unique characters. One of these characters was the iconic ostrich puppet, Ossie Ostrich. This combination made it a beloved Saturday night tradition for many Australian families.
Find more here: Hey Hey It’s Saturday (1971 – 1999)
2. Simon Townsend’s Wonder World (1979 – 1987)
“Simon Townsend’s Wonder World” was a children’s program. It offered an educational yet entertaining mix of stories.
These stories covered science, nature, and quirky human interest topics.
https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-4474055489327117 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Hosted by Simon Townsend. The show had an enthusiastic reporting style. It featured the catchy theme song, “It’s a Wonder World!” It inspired a generation of curious young minds.
Many curious young minds found inspiration in it. It remains a nostalgic favourite for those who grew up watching it.
Find more here: Simon Townsend’s Wonder World (1979 – 1987)
1. Sons and Daughters (1982 – 1987)
A soap opera that centred on the tangled lives of two families, the Hamiltons and the Palmers. “Sons and Daughters” served as a melodramatic staple of the 1980s. The series explored themes of love, betrayal, and family secrets, offering plenty of twists and turns to keep audiences hooked. Its catchy theme song and dramatic plotlines made it a quintessential part of Australian TV culture during its run.
Find more here: Sons and Daughters (1982 – 1987)
Conclusion
The 1980s were a transformative period for Australian television. It produced shows that not only entertained but also reflected the societal changes.
These shows showcased the cultural diversity of the time. These programs left an indelible mark on Australian pop culture, and their legacy continues to be felt today.
Whether you were a fan of the dramatic twists in “Neighbours” or the heartfelt stories in “A Country Practice.” The TV shows of the 1980s played a significant role in shaping the Australian entertainment landscape.
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