Welcome to NAIDOC Week 2025! This year’s national theme, ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’, celebrates 50 years of the NAIDOC journey by honoring the achievements of the past and the promising future of First Peoples. A perfect way to explore this theme is through the lens of film and television, where the creativity, talent, and tenacity of First Nations people shine both in front of and behind the camera.
For those feeling the pinch of monthly streaming subscriptions, worry not. A wealth of free entertainment awaits on platforms like ABC iview, SBSonDemand, and Brollie. We’ve curated a selection of First Nations projects that promise to entertain, educate, and inspire.
Feel-Good Selections
Top End Wedding
Directed by Wayne Blair, Top End Wedding is a delightful rom-com featuring Miranda Tapsell and Gwilym Lee. The story follows engaged lawyers Lauren and Ned as they journey to Darwin, only to find Lauren’s mother missing. This heartwarming film is a testament to family, connection, and love, filled with classic rom-com tropes and stunning scenery.
Where to Watch: iview
Strait to the Plate
Hosted by Aaron Fa’aoso, Strait to the Plate is a culinary journey through the Torres Strait Islands. This series not only tantalizes with fresh seafood and local produce but also delves into the rich culture and traditions of the region, making it a feast for both the eyes and the soul.
Where to Watch: SBSonDemand
Black Comedy
For those new to Indigenous comedy, Black Comedy is the perfect introduction. Featuring talents like Nakkiah Lui and Steven Oliver, this sketch show delivers laughs with its sharp wit and cultural insights across four seasons.
Where to Watch: iview
Compelling Dramas
Mystery Road
Ivan Sen’s Mystery Road introduces Detective Jay Swan, played by Aaron Pedersen, who investigates a teenager’s death in rural Queensland. This film blends crime thriller elements with a distinctly Australian flavor, setting the stage for the acclaimed TV series.
Where to Watch: iview
Samson & Delilah
Warwick Thornton’s Samson & Delilah is a poignant tale of two Indigenous teenagers navigating life in Alice Springs. This film, celebrated for its raw beauty and emotional depth, won the Caméra d’Or at Cannes, marking a significant achievement in Australian cinema.
Where to Watch: SBSonDemand
Rabbit-Proof Fence
Rabbit-Proof Fence tells the harrowing true story of three Indigenous girls’ escape from government assimilation policies. Directed by Phillip Noyce, this film sparked conversations about Australia’s history and remains a powerful reminder of resilience and resistance.
Where to Watch: SBSonDemand
Family-Friendly Features
Ready For This
Ready For This follows five Indigenous teens at a Sydney talent incubator. This series captures the highs and lows of adolescence, offering a relatable and engaging portrayal of young people finding their place in the world.
Where to Watch: iview
Emu Runner
Set in Brewarrina, Emu Runner is a touching story of a young girl bonding with a wild emu after her mother’s death. Director Imogen Thomas crafts a moving narrative about grief and healing, set against the backdrop of rural Australia.
Where to Watch: Brollie
Robbie Hood
Robbie Hood, a web-series by Dylan River, follows a mischievous 13-year-old in Alice Springs. This series is a joyful exploration of friendship and community, infused with humor and heart.
Where to Watch: SBSonDemand
Films of the 2020s
We Are Still Here
We Are Still Here is an anthology that spans 1,000 years of colonial impact on Indigenous peoples. With stories from multiple directors, it weaves a narrative of resistance and resilience, urging viewers to “Decolonise your mind.”
Where to Watch: SBSonDemand
Sweet As
Jub Clerc’s Sweet As offers a sincere coming-of-age story set in the Pilbara. Following teen Murra, this film embraces the joys and challenges of adolescence, emphasizing friendship and personal growth.
Where to Watch: SBSonDemand
Limbo
In Limbo, director Ivan Sen returns with a gripping outback noir. Simon Baker stars as Travis Hurley, unraveling a cold case in a fictional town. This film, acclaimed for its atmospheric storytelling, is a must-watch for fans of Sen’s work.
Where to Watch: iview
As NAIDOC Week 2025 unfolds, these films and series offer a window into the rich tapestry of First Nations culture and storytelling. Whether you’re seeking laughter, drama, or inspiration, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy and reflect upon.
