SBS On Demand has returned with its Digital Originals series, featuring three new scripted shows from emerging screen talents.
From Thursday, June 19th, these series will be available weekly on National Indigenous Television (NITV) and SBS On Demand.
The 2025 line-up includes First Nations stories alongside a queer Pasifika-led drama, all exploring themes of identity, culture, and community.
The series are:
“Moonbird” was among eight projects worldwide chosen for the 2025 Series Mania Short Forms Competition. It’s a co-production between Tasmania’s first Aboriginal screen company, Kutikina Productions, and Sheoak Films. The story follows a newly sober father (Kyle Morrison) and his son (Lennox Monaghan) as they reconnect during a traditional muttonbirding season on a remote Tasmanian island. Adam Thompson co-created and co-wrote the series, with Nathan Maynard co-creating, co-writing, and directing. Funding comes from Screen Australia, with support from SBS and Screen Tasmania.
Premieres Thursday, June 19th, 8.30pm on NITV and SBS On Demand.
“Warm Props” centers on Charlie (Tehya Makani) returning to a hectic film shoot in Western Australia, where she must face her past while dealing with a difficult boss who threatens her career and personal life. The series was created and written by Jub Clerc and Kimberley Benjamin, directed by both, and produced by Jodie Bell for Ramu Productions. The cast also includes Rarriwuy Hick and Jillian Nguyen. Funding is provided by Screen Australia, Screenwest, and Lotterywest.
Premieres Thursday, June 26th, 8:30pm on NITV and SBS On Demand.
“Moni” follows a gay Samoan man who tries to understand why his mother has fallen from the sky, leading him to embrace his own truth. The series was created, written, and showrun by Taofia Pelesasa, directed by Alana Hicks, and produced by Nicole Coventry with executive producer Eliorah Malifa. Chris Alosio stars in the lead role. Funding comes from Screen Australia, SBS, and Screen NSW.
Premieres Thursday, July 3rd, 8:30pm on NITV and SBS On Demand.
SBS Head of Scripted Nakul Legha says, “Digital Originals is one of a kind worldwide — unmatched in ambition, impact, and proven as a launchpad for emerging Australian storytellers from underrepresented communities.
“As we celebrate SBS’s 50th anniversary, these series live our ‘We Go There’ ethos: authentic, unapologetic, and entertaining stories from across Australia. They’re a testament to SBS’s vital role in the nation’s cultural fabric, and we can’t wait to share them.”
NITV Head of Indigenous Commissioning and Production Dena Curtis adds, “Digital Originals is a crucial platform showcasing the breadth and boldness of First Nations storytelling, empowering a new wave of trailblazing Indigenous creatives. We’re proud to back these voices and excited to see audiences connect with their work.”
Previous Digital Originals projects have received industry recognition, including awards and nominations at events such as the Australian Writers’ Guild Awards, Canneseries, and the AACTA Awards.
Digital Originals is the joint initiative between Screen Australia, SBS and NITV supporting screen creatives currently under-represented in the sector.
Episodes of the new series will be available weekly from Thursday, June 9th at 8:30pm on NITV and SBS On Demand.