Discover the Most Hilarious Australian Comedy Shows of All Time

June 24, 2024

Everyone loves a good laugh. Scientists have done studies to prove how laughing reduces stress and boosts moods.

Laughter has also been shown to strengthen the immune system. For instance, it boosts heart rate by about 10 to 20% and blood flow by 20%, and all this contributes to immunity. (1)

It’s like medicine for your soul! But finding a truly funny show in today’s endless sea of content? That can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. You spend hours scrolling, clicking and hoping for a chuckle, often to no avail.

Don’t despair. If you’re tired of sifting through mediocre comedies, Australian comedy could be an excellent way out. With its unique blend of wit, sarcasm and sometimes downright absurdity, Aussie humour has garnered a cult following worldwide. Critics rave about its clever writing and bold performances.

Below is a list of the most hilarious Australian comedy shows of all time.

The Classics: Timeless Aussie Humour

No exploration of Australian comedy is complete without a nod to the classics. These shows have stood the test of time, leaving an undeniable mark on the national humour landscape.

Kath & Kim

First up is the iconic sitcom “Kath & Kim.” It first aired in 2002 and ran for four seasons. It follows a dysfunctional mother-daughter duo in suburban Melbourne. The show is packed with hilarious situations and one-liners that have become ingrained in Australian pop culture.

Kath, the mother, is overly concerned with appearances and maintaining the status quo. On the other hand, Kim, the daughter, is self-absorbed and known for her outrageous fashion sense. Their dysfunctional relationship and their constant attempts to outdo each other provide endless entertainment.

The Comedy Company

“The Comedy Company” revolutionised sketch comedy in Australia. Given its memorable characters and sharp social commentary, this comedy show set the stage for many comedic careers. For example, Mary-Anne Fahey and Ian McFadyen.

Full Frontal

“Full Frontal” took Aussie comedy to the edge. This sketch show wasn’t afraid to tackle taboo topics with its dark and satirical humour. It also served as a launchpad for the careers of comedy legends like Eric Bana and Shaun Micallef.

There are several other noteworthy comedies aside from the abovementioned ones, and you can catch them on streaming services like Stan. This lists some of the best Australian comedy you may be interested to watch.

The Modern Eras and Perspectives

As time marches on, so does Aussie comedy. Newer shows have emerged, pushing boundaries and tackling contemporary issues with a fresh perspective. People are also watching comedies in great numbers. About a billion online video views per day are comedy-related, showing this genre’s immense popularity. (2)

Totally Completely Fine

Totally Completely Fine is a dark comedy that explores the serious topic of suicide prevention. Surprisingly, it does that with just the perfect combo of humour and heart. It follows a young woman who unexpectedly inherits her grandfather’s suicide prevention hotline. She now has to navigate the challenges of helping others while, at the very same time, dealing with her own struggles. This show tackles difficult subject matter with sensitivity and wit, offering a refreshing and nuanced perspective.

Utopia

“Utopia” takes a satirical jab at the often frustrating world of Australian bureaucracy. It follows a team of government employees as they navigate red tape, office politics and absurd projects. These familiar scenarios will surely get you laughing.

Please Like Me

For a more heartfelt experience, “Please Like Me” offers a raw and honest look at mental health, relationships and growing up. It’s funny, touching and will likely leave you with a tear or two in your eye.

Stand-Up Comedy

Stand-up comedy dates back to the early decades of the 20th Century as part of vaudeville entertainment. Australia has also produced a wealth of stand-up comedy talent. These comedians have captivated audiences with their unique styles and perspectives. (3)

Hannah Gadsby

Hannah Gadsby has become a global phenomenon with her groundbreaking specials like “Nanette” and “Douglas.” Nanette will be forever remembered as the show that brought together Hannah Gadsby and her wife Jenney Shamash back in 2018. Her comedy delves into personal experiences, social commentary and art history, often challenging traditional stand-up norms.

Wil Anderson

Wil Anderson is known for his sharp wit and insightful observations on current events. He’s not afraid to tackle controversial topics with humour, making his shows both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Kitty Flanagan

Kitty Flanagan’s relatable humour focuses on everyday struggles and observations. Her self-deprecating style and sharp delivery make her one of the most beloved comedians in Australia.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the mainstream hits, a couple of underrated Aussie comedies await your discovery. These shows might not have the same level of recognition, but they pack a comedic punch.

Black Comedy

“Black Comedy” is a groundbreaking sketch show that tackles Indigenous issues with sharp satire and dark humour. It’s both funny and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on Australian society.

Summer Heights High

Brace yourself for “Summer Heights High,” a controversial mockumentary that follows three unforgettable characters: the flamboyant drama teacher Mr. G, the self-absorbed private school exchange student Ja’mie King, and the disruptive troublemaker Jonah Takalua. This show will make you feel all sorts of stuff. It’ll make you laugh. Prepare to cringe as well. It’ll even make you question everything you thought you knew about high school! it doesn’t matter whether you’re watching from a pub, your home or cinema hall. This is going to tickle you big time.

Conclusion

From classic sitcoms to modern satires, stand-up legends to hidden gems, Australian comedy offers a diverse and delightful array of laughter. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, there’s a show out there that will tickle your funny bone. You can find many of these shows on streaming platforms. There’s no excuse not to indulge.

But don’t stop there! Dive deeper into the world of Aussie humour. Catch a live comedy show in Melbourne or Sydney. Explore the many podcasts featuring hilarious Australian comedians. You can also take it a notch higher by planning a trip to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. This is a world-renowned celebration of laughter.

So, what are you waiting for? Embrace the unique humour of Australia and discover your new favourite comedy obsession. It’s guaranteed to brighten your day and leave you wanting more.

References