The Best Movies Set in Australia

Over 400 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies Set in Australia
Voting Rules
Vote up the best major film releases in which Australia is a setting so important, it's nearly a character itself.

These are the best movies set in Australia, ranked from best to worst by user votes. Some of the top films set in Australia are full of action and adventure, while other great Australian movies are love stories. A few of the greatest movies set in Australia are pieces of multi-film franchises.

What films will you find on this best movies set in Australia list? Of course the original Mad Max, starring Mel Gibson, has to be near the top of any Australian film list. The first three films in this classic series were filmed around Australia, but the newest edition, Mad Max:Fury Road was filmed in Namibia. Australia, starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman, is another engaging film set in Australia.

The 2013 movie, Tracks, finds Mia Wasikowska hiking across the Australian desert accompanied only by her animal companions. Other good movies that are featured on this top movies set in Australia list include Walkabout, Crocodile Dundee and Muriel's Wedding.

Which Australian film is your all-time favorite? Vote the best movies up to the top of this list and share some of your favorite Australian movie moments in the comments section.
Most divisive: Sirens
Ranked by
  • Mad Max
    1
    Mel Gibson, Joanne Samuel, Hugh Keays-Byrne
    141 votes
    • Released: 1979
    • Directed by: George Miller

    In this iconic dystopian action film, a law enforcer-turned-vigilante seeks revenge on a vicious motorcycle gang that wrecked his life. With stunning visuals of a desolate wasteland and gripping high-speed chases, the movie catapulted Mel Gibson to stardom and forever changed the landscape of action cinema. The film's cult status and influence on future post-apocalyptic stories make it a must-watch for any cinephile.

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  • Gallipoli
    2
    Mark Lee, Mel Gibson, Bill Kerr
    105 votes
    • Released: 1981
    • Directed by: Peter Weir

    This powerful war drama tells the story of two young sprinters who join the Australian Army during World War I and end up fighting in the disastrous Gallipoli campaign. Directed by Peter Weir, the film explores themes of friendship, bravery, and the devastating loss experienced by all sides in war. The emotional impact of the story combined with the haunting score by Brian May makes it a truly unforgettable film.

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  • Crocodile Dundee
    3
    Paul Hogan, Linda Kozlowski, Mark Blum
    155 votes
    • Released: 1986
    • Directed by: Peter Faiman

    This 1986 comedy-adventure film stars Paul Hogan as Mick "Crocodile" Dundee, an eccentric crocodile hunter from the Outback who travels to New York City to woo a journalist. Filled with both humor and heart, the film showcases the unique charm and wit of its protagonist, while also painting a vivid picture of life in the Outback. It remains one of the most successful and beloved comedies of all time.

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  • The Dressmaker
    4
    Kate Winslet, Judy Davis, Liam Hemsworth
    30 votes
    • Released: 2015
    • Directed by: Jocelyn Moorhouse

    This black comedy-drama film stars Kate Winslet as a talented dressmaker who returns to her small hometown in rural Victoria after years of living in Paris, seeking revenge on those who wronged her. The captivating performances and stunning costume design make this film a visual treat, while its darkly comedic and intricate plot will keep audiences engaged until the very end. This tale of love, revenge, and haute couture is a must-see for fans of quirky, stylish cinema.

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  • The Castle
    5
    Michael Caton, Anne Tenney, Stephen Curry
    95 votes
    • Released: 1997
    • Directed by: Rob Sitch

    This satirical comedy film tells the story of the quirky and determined Kerrigan family, who fight to save their home from being forcibly purchased by the government to make way for an airport expansion. With its witty dialogue, heartwarming characters, and clever critique of bureaucracy, this film has gained a loyal following and become a cult classic. It remains a hilariously relatable depiction of the eccentricities and endearing qualities of working-class life.

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  • Mad Max 2
    6
    Mel Gibson, Bruce Spence, Emil Minty
    80 votes
    • Released: 1981
    • Directed by: George Miller

    This high-octane sequel to the groundbreaking original film sees Mel Gibson's ex-cop antihero once again taking on marauders in a post-apocalyptic wasteland. With its thrilling car chases, daring stunts, and unforgettable visuals, the movie has earned its place as one of the most influential action films ever made. Its enduring popularity and impact on future filmmakers prove that there's no stopping the relentless force of its title character.