Let’s face it: the worlds on fire (sometimes literally), and scrolling through bad news can make it feel like there’s no hope. But spoiler alert—there is hope. And yes, there are good people doing good things. Sometimes, all we need is a great doco to remind us of that and fire up our inner activist.
Australia is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife in the world—honestly, we’re so lucky to call this country home. But it’s up to us to protect it.
If you’re keen to learn more about Australia’s natural places and how to safeguard them, we’ve rounded up some of the best nature and climate documentaries you can stream for free.
They’ll make you care, make you want to act, and most importantly, they’ll remind you that you’re not alone in this fight.
1. Australia’s Wild Odyssey
Available on: ABC iView
Following the rain, rivers, and underground aquifers as they shape and connect distant ecosystems, Australia’s Wild Odyssey takes you on a journey across the Australian continent to uncover the vital connections between all living creatures. Each episode explores a different part of the country, revealing how water transforms the driest of places. With stunning visuals and powerful storytelling, this series is an epic adventure across Australia’s unique environments and a reminder of how precious and interconnected life on our planet truly is.
2. Platypus Guardian
Available on: ABC iView
In Platypus Guardian, we follow Pete Walsh, a Hobart local and self-taught conservationist who’s made it his mission to protect Australia’s quirkiest monotreme. This doco is a mix of conservation efforts and personal passion, as Pete monitors and safeguards platypus habitats. Working with scientists and local communities to raise awareness about the environmental pressures platypuses face—like water pollution and habitat destruction. It’s a heartwarming story about how individual action can have a real impact, with plenty of cute platypus moments along the way.
3. Climate Changers
Available on: SBS
From inventors to activists, Climate Changers spotlights everyday Aussies making extraordinary efforts to combat climate change. This documentary proves you don’t need to be a scientist or a policymaker to influence meaningful change. You’ll meet a wide range of innovators, coming up with practical, often local solutions to one of the world’s biggest problems. It’s a hopeful look at what’s possible when individuals and communities take action.
4. Ningaloo (Nyinggulu)
Available on: ABC iView
A documentary that quite literally dives into the Ningaloo Reef, located off the coast of Western Australia. It’s full of incredible underwater footage showcasing the biodiversity that makes this place so special. As well as highlighting the importance of protecting this fragile ecosystem, we’re offered a rare glimpse into the connection between the reef and the Indigenous Baiyungu people, who have been the traditional custodians of this land and sea for thousands of years. If you’re into ocean conservation or just love watching marine life in action, this is a must-see.
5. Reef Live
Available on: ABC iView
Across two nights, Reef Live captures the annual coral spawning event and showcases the incredible biodiversity of the reef. It’s a front-row seat to one of nature’s most spectacular events, plus it features lots of live commentary from marine scientists to give you the lowdown on what’s happening in real-time. If you’ve ever wanted to witness the magic of the Great Barrier Reef without leaving your living room, this is your chance.
6. Back to Nature
Available on: ABC iView
Back to Nature is a relaxing documentary series that’s all about reconnecting with Australia’s natural landscapes. Each episode is part travelogue, part storytelling, as the hosts explore the history, ecology, and spiritual significance of these wild spaces. Combining Indigenous knowledge, breathtaking scenery, and meditative moments. It’s the perfect watch if you want to slow down and get lost in the beauty of Australia’s outdoors.
7. Fight for Planet A: Our Climate Challenge
Available on: ABC iView
Hosted by Craig Reucassel (the guy from The War on Waste), Fight for Planet A looks at how Australia can tackle climate change. It’s less doom and gloom and more about what everyday people can do to reduce their carbon footprint. Across three episodes, Craig dives into practical solutions—like renewable energy, reducing household emissions, how our food choices impact the environment, and what we can do as individuals to have an impact.
8. The Endangered Generation
Available on: SBS
The Endangered Generation takes a look at what the future could hold if we don’t take serious action to tackle climate change. It’s a thought-provoking documentary that doesn’t shy away from the tough questions. Through interviews with scientists, environmentalists, and parents, it explores what kind of world we’re leaving for future generations. The film doesn’t just focus on the problems, though; it also offers solutions, highlighting the people and ideas that could help turn things around. It’s not always an easy watch, but it’s an important one for anyone concerned about the legacy we’re creating for the next generation.
9. David Attenborough: A Life On Earth
Available on: 7plus
Watch here
If there’s anyone who can make you fall in love with nature, it’s Sir David Attenborough. This documentary is the ultimate highlight reel of his extraordinary life spent exploring the planet’s wildest places. This film is a reminder that while nature is breathtaking, it’s also fragile, and we’ve got some serious work to do if we want to protect it. With his signature charm and that unmistakable soothing voice, Attenborough will have you fired up to protect our planet by the time the credits roll.
A few extras – not free to stream but worth the watch if you access to these platforms
Rachael’s Farm
Available on: Stan, Apple TV, and Prime
Rachael Treasure, an Aussie author-turned-farmer, takes us through her journey of transforming her family’s farm in Tasmania into a sustainable haven. It’s a deeply personal look at how one person can take a small patch of land and make a big difference for the planet. With a few laughs, a few challenges, and a whole lot of heart, this doco shows that sustainable farming doesn’t have to be some far-off dream.
The Giants – Bob Brown
Available on: Netflix and DocPlay
This doco dives into former Green’s leader Bob Brown’s life, from his early days of nature-loving to his rise as one of the country’s most influential environmentalists. You’ll see how Bob’s relentless energy helped build the Australian Greens and save some of our most iconic landscapes. You’ll finish this one wanting to become a full-blown eco-warrior (or at least plant a tree).
Cry of the Forests
Available on: Vimeo and The Education Shop
If you’re someone who feels a pang of guilt every time you see a tree being cut down, Cry of the Forests is right up your alley. This doco is all about saving Western Australia’s native forests—trees that have been around longer than most of us can imagine. It follows passionate activists, Indigenous custodians, and scientists who are standing up against the logging industry. With stunning shots of ancient trees and a storyline that’ll have you feeling both inspired and outraged enough to join the fight.
Regenerating Australia
Available on: Apple TV, Google Play, Prime, and Fetch
This film takes a forward-thinking approach, imagining what Australia could look like in 2030 if we fully committed to sustainability. Regenerating Australia is a mix of documentary and future vision, looking at what could happen if we embraced renewable energy, rewilding, and community-driven environmental action. It’s a hopeful and inspiring glimpse into the future, showcasing the potential for regeneration and the power of collective action. A must-watch for anyone wanting to feel inspired about what’s possible.
