Australian Story - Season 31

First aired: 2/2/2026 8 episodes

In 2026, Logie-award-winning documentary program Australian Story celebrates 30 years sharing compelling stories about real people that illuminate, entertain and inspire. The power of the personal.

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Episodes

1. Sink or Swim - Michael Klim

Aired: 2/2/2026

Six years ago, Olympic champion Michael Klim almost lost the ability to walk. Then he received a devastating diagnosis. In this moving episode, Klim reveals how he hit rock bottom but ultimately emerged stronger.

2. Finding Alby Mangels

Aired: 2/9/2026

The reclusive adventure filmmaker and '80s icon Alby Mangels looks back on an extraordinary career and explains why he turned his back on fame.

3. Out in the Open - Sophie Hyde

Aired: 2/16/2026

Sophie Hyde is one of Australia's most successful directors, working with some of Hollywood's finest. But in her latest film she turns the spotlight on her own family.

4. Nabbed - Ian Williams

Aired: 2/23/2026

When pensioner Ian Williams lost $1,300 in a banking scam, he expected a quick refund and apology. The bank's response so incensed the "stubborn bugger", he sued it for $379,000,000.

5. Raising Richard - Deirdre Croft

Aired: 3/9/2026

Who cares for our children when we're gone if they can't care for themselves? As Deirdre Croft faces the end of her life, she's on a mission to ensure her son is looked after when she's gone.

6. Morning Star - Witiyana Marika

Aired: 3/16/2026

From Arnhem Land to rock stardom, Yothu Yindi's Witiyana Marika was destined to take centre stage. Now, at a crucial time for his community, he's shed his dreadlocks and emerged as a leader of his people.

7. What Doesn't Kill You - Ghanim Al Shnen

Aired: 3/23/2026

Many would have despaired after losing both their arms but Ghanim Al Shnen embraced the possibilities of bionic medicine and focused on a dream - to be reunited with his family after 12 years apart.

8. The Leyland Brother - Mal Leyland

Aired: 3/30/2026

In the 1960s and 70s, Mal Leyland was one of the best-known people on TV, as one half of the Leyland Brothers. Now at age 81, the pioneer of outback documentaries is suffering dementia - but still planning one last trip.