ACTF News

National NAIDOC Week 2026 takes place from 5-12 July, marking 50 years of recognising and celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and achievements. This year's theme, "50 Years of Deadly", honours the Elders, activists, artists and leaders who have strengthened and championed First Nations voices over the past five decades. 

The Australian Children's Television Foundation (ACTF) has supported the creation of many series and films that centre First Nations stories, cultures and perspectives. These productions give young audiences the opportunity to connect with Country, community and culture through engaging stories told by and with First Nations people. 

Whether you're celebrating NAIDOC Week during the school holidays or exploring First Nations perspectives in the classroom throughout the year, here's a journey through some standout ACTF-supported productions. 

1998 | Li'l Elvis Jones and the Truckstoppers (Years 3-6) 

Lionel Dexter is a talented and proud young Aboriginal boy whose creativity and cultural knowledge are central to the story of Li’l Elvis Jones and the Truckstoppers. Lionel's didgeridoo playing helps create the band's unique "Didgibilli Rock" sound, blending contemporary music with cultural influences. Through friendship, humour and adventure, the series celebrates cultural diversity and belonging.

2000 | Yolngu Boy (Years 9-12) 

Set in North-East Arnhem Land with a story developed with strong community involvement, Yolngu Boy follows three young men navigating the tension between traditional culture and the modern world. The film explores identity, friendship, responsibility and the importance of culture in shaping a young person's future. It remains a landmark Australian film for its authentic portrayal of Yolngu life and perspectives.  

2007 | Double Trouble (Years 7-10) 

This light-hearted drama explores questions of identity, family and belonging through the story of twin girls separated at birth. As one twin grows up in a remote Aboriginal community and the other in urban Sydney, the series examines the many ways culture, place and family shape who we become. Alongside its humour and heart, Double Trouble offers young audiences' meaningful insights into First Nations experiences.

2011 - 2012 | Waabiny Time (Foundation-Year 2) 

Waabiny Time is a vibrant children's series that celebrates Noongar language and culture through stories, songs, dance, craft and play. Hosted by Kylie Farmer and Lee West, the program introduces young children to First Nations language and ways of knowing in a fun, engaging and age-appropriate way. Developed with early childhood educators and Noongar language specialists, the series supports language preservation while showcasing the richness and diversity of First Nations culture and creativity. 

2012 - 2015 | Bushwhacked! (Years 3-6) 

Bushwhacked! combines adventure, wildlife and culture as hosts Kayne Tremills, Brandon Walters and Kamil Ellis travel across Australia exploring some of the country's most remarkable landscapes and communities. Along the way, they learn from First Nations Elders and community members, discovering traditional knowledge, cultural practices and deep connections to Country. From the Ningaloo Reef to Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef, the series celebrates the diversity of First Nations cultures through exciting, real-world adventures. 

2010 | Wadu Matyidi (Years 3-6) 

The award-winning short film Wadu Matyidi introduces students to Adnyamathanha language, culture, stories and traditions. Through animation and accompanying learning resources, young people explore themes of identity, community and connection to Country while developing an understanding of one of Australia's First Nations languages.  

2015 | Ready for This (Years 5-10) 

Set in inner-city Sydney, Ready for This follows six talented First Nations teenagers as they pursue their dreams. The series explores issues of identity, ambition, culture and connection to home while celebrating the achievements and aspirations of young people. Its contemporary setting challenges stereotypes and showcases the diversity of First Nations experiences.  

2017- 2024 | Little J & Big Cuz Series 1 – 4 (Foundation-Year 2) 

Five-year-old Little J and his older cousin Big Cuz navigate the adventures of school, family and friendship with the support of Nanna, Old Dog and their teacher, Ms Chen. Through everyday experiences and journeys across Country, the series introduces young viewers to First Nations culture, community and connection to Country. Warm, engaging and relatable, it celebrates the experiences of contemporary First Nations children. 

2020 | Thalu (Years 3-6) 

This imaginative adventure blends fantasy, science fiction and First Nations storytelling traditions. Set on Ngarluma Country in the Pilbara, a group of First Nations children must draw on cultural knowledge and spiritual connections to save their Country from a mysterious threat. The series places First Nations languages, stories and perspectives at the centre of an action-packed journey that celebrates the strength of young people and the enduring importance of caring for Country.  

2021 | Red Dirt Riders (Years 3-6) 

Filmed on Ngarluma Country in Western Australia's Pilbara region, this factual series follows a group of children as they explore their community on motorbikes and quad bikes. Along the way, viewers learn about local stories, landscapes and cultural knowledge through the eyes of the young riders themselves. The series offers a joyful and authentic glimpse into life in a remote First Nations community.  

2022 | Barrumbi Kids (Years 3-6) 

Based on Leonie Norrington's books, Barrumbi Kids follows best friends Tomias and Dahlia as they grow up together in a remote Northern Territory community. The series was filmed amid the stunning outback scenery of the lands of the Jawoyn, Dagoman and Wardaman peoples around Katherine, Beswick and Barunga. Through everyday adventures, the series explores friendship, family and culture. Grounded in Country and community, it shares First Nations perspectives with warmth, humour and authenticity. 

2022 | Built to Survive (Years 3-6) 

Hosted by third-generation First Nations educator and adventurer Phil Breslin, Built to Survive explores the remarkable ways Australia's unique animals have adapted to some of the world's most extreme environments. Drawing on First Nations knowledge, science and Phil's own experiences in the wild, the series takes viewers from remote deserts to tropical landscapes to discover the secrets behind Australia's extraordinary wildlife. Alongside fascinating animal encounters, the series highlights the deep connections between First Nations peoples, Country and the natural world. 

2023 | Crazy Fun Park Episode 7: ‘Friends with Feelings’ (Years 7-8) 

Crazy Fun Park is a fantasy series about friendship, grief and growing up. Episode 7 provides a particularly moving First Nations storyline. In ‘Friends with Feelings’, Nimrod is reunited with Aunty Winnie more than 30 years after his death, creating a powerful exploration of family, connection and healing. The episode highlights the enduring strength of kinship and intergenerational relationships.  

2024 | Eddie's Lil' Homies (Foundation-Year 2) 

Inspired by the books of AFL legend Eddie Betts, this animated series follows Eddie and his friends as they navigate friendship, empathy and everyday challenges. First Nations culture is woven naturally into the characters and stories, allowing young children to see First Nations experiences represented in a contemporary and relatable way. The series celebrates community, kindness and the value of supporting one another.  

2024 | Windcatcher (Years 5-8) 

Percy Boy Collins is a proud young Aboriginal boy determined to overcome adversity and stand up to a group of bullies. Alongside themes of friendship and resilience, the story explores family, cultural connection and the passing down of knowledge between generations. Percy Boy's journey reminds audiences that courage can come from embracing who you are and where you come from.  

2026 | Whale Shark Jack (Years 5-8) 

Set on Baiyungu Country around Western Australia's spectacular Ningaloo Reef, Whale Shark Jack combines environmental storytelling with First Nations knowledge and connection to Sea Country. The production was developed in collaboration with Baiyungu Traditional Owners, ensuring cultural perspectives are embedded within the story. Through Sarah's adventure to find her missing whale shark friend, the film celebrates relationships between people, culture and the natural world. 

As NAIDOC Week celebrates 50 Years of Deadly, these ACTF-supported films and series showcase the richness and diversity of First Nations storytelling across generations. Together, they highlight the importance of culture, community, Country and connection, while ensuring young Australians can see First Nations voices, performers, experiences and perspectives reflected on screen. 

Access the official NAIDOC Week 2026 education resources here.