Australian Story celebrates 30 years of documentary storytelling

The ABC current affairs program Australian Story is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Since its inception in 1996, the documentary series has aired more than 1,400 episodes and earned eight Logie Awards and ten Walkley Awards.

Host Leigh Sales and executive producer Greg Hassall attribute the program's longevity to its intimate storytelling format, which allows subjects to tell their own stories in their own words. The program focuses on deep dives into the realities of human life, often highlighting how individuals adapt to significant challenges.

A special anniversary episode, Australian Story Live: Celebrating 30 Years, was filmed at the Sydney Opera House. The event features various notable figures, including actress Claudia Karvan, Olympic champion Michael Klim, and educator Eddie Woo, to connect viewers with inspiring individuals who have been featured on the show.