Prime Video expands its local offerings with three new Australian originals, including true-crime series and a new season of ‘The Test.’
Prime Video has confirmed the addition of three new Australian original series, expanding its local content slate to 34 commissions since 2019. The announcement was made on September 8, 2026, via Variety, outlining the upcoming projects, which include two true-crime docuseries and the fourth season of the sports documentary series 'The Test.' All are scheduled to launch starting in 2027.
One of the key titles, 'Free Spirits: The Backpacker Poisonings,' will delve into a tragic incident involving eight backpackers traveling through Southeast Asia, including two Australians. This true-crime docuseries will consist of three parts, utilizing phone footage, final voice messages, and interviews with survivors and victims' families to piece together the events that surrounded a night out in Laos that resulted in six fatalities. The series aims to offer an in-depth exploration of this harrowing story, including its emotional impact on the families involved. Produced by Cineflix for Amazon MGM Studios, it promises to provide both a factual recounting of the events and an analysis of the implications for safety while traveling.
The second true-crime docuseries, titled 'Madness of Three,' focuses on the 2022 killings in Wieambilla, Queensland, where a trio fatally shot two police officers and a neighbor. This five-part series will provide exclusive access and insight into how conspiracy theories and online radicalization influenced the tragic events that unfolded. It will examine the psychological motivations behind the attackers and the broader social implications of their actions. Blackfella Films is set to produce this series for Amazon MGM Studios, which highlights a growing commitment to local storytelling.
'The Test' will return for its fourth season, focusing on the Australian men's cricket team as they embark on significant international matches, including a five-match series in India and the 2027 Ashes. This season promises to provide fans with an intimate look at the team's journey, their strategies, and the personal challenges they face as they compete on an international level. Produced by Cricket Australia, Whooshka Media, and Amazon MGM Studios, this season will likely captivate cricket enthusiasts and offer insights that extend beyond the sport itself.
These new Australian originals signify Prime Video's ongoing investment in local content, aiming to resonate with Australian audiences while attracting international viewers. Sarah Christie, head of Australian and New Zealand originals at Amazon MGM Studios, stated that successful global initiatives require strong local content. This philosophy drives the network's commitment to authentically portraying Australian stories that matter.
The inclusion of compelling true-crime narratives and sports documentaries points to Prime Video's strategy to diversify its offerings and engage viewers with meaningful, real-life stories that have wide-reaching implications. This focus not only enhances its brand value but also contributes to the global narrative surrounding issues of crime and sport.
What this means is that Prime Video is solidifying its role as a key player in the Australian media landscape, promoting authentic storytelling while addressing themes that resonate deeply with viewers both locally and globally.
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