Let’s face it—between work, parenting, and surviving winter, a good Netflix binge can feel like self-care. Whether you're in the mood for a gritty thriller, a cosy romance, or a smart comedy that doesn’t involve animated animals, Netflix is home to some seriously binge-worthy gems for grown-ups.

Here are some top picks to add to your queue—perfect for post-bedtime relaxation or weekend couch marathons with a glass of wine in hand.

The Best Netflix Shows in Australia Right Now: Parents Edition

1. The Waterfront

As a prominent North Carolina family's fishing empire decays, the damaged Buckleys grapple to revive their maritime heritage. The Waterfront is a new thriller to Netflix and it makes for a gripping watch; perfect for your next couch rot sesh. 

2. North Shore

When a British detective teams up with an Aussie cop to solve a high-profile murder, sparks fly—professionally and culturally.

Set against Sydney’s iconic coastline, North Shore blends crime, character clashes, and coastal glamour for an easy-to-binge thriller that’ll keep you guessing.

3. Love on the Spectrum

This heartwarming docuseries is back, following neurodivergent adults as they navigate love and dating with honesty, humour, and charm.

Love on the Spectrum is feel-good TV with genuine emotional depth—parents will laugh, cry, and root for every awkward, adorable moment.

4. Toxic Town

Inspired by real events, this gritty UK drama follows a group of parents and locals fighting for justice after a devastating environmental disaster.

With powerful performances and a timely message, Toxic Town is both moving and maddening—in the best possible way.

5. Baby Reindeer

This dark, addictive British thriller made waves following its release—and for good reason. Based on a true story, Baby Reindeer follows a struggling comedian whose seemingly harmless interaction with a fan spirals into a chilling obsession.

It’s intense, emotional, and impossible to stop watching. If you haven't already seen it, add to your to-watch list stat!

6. Bridgerton: Season 3

If you've not yet caught up on the happenings of the 'Ton, now is your chance. The corsets came back for season 3 of Bridgerton, and so did the drama. Season 3 gives us Penelope and Colin’s slow-burn romance, steamy moments, and all the pastel-hued gossip we’ve come to love.

It’s juicy, escapist fun and completely bingeable—plus, with season 4 coming out in 2026, it's best to get up to speed now!

7. Dept. Q

After a high-profile blunder, a brilliant but brash cop is shuffled off to the basement to head up Edinburgh’s new cold case unit: Dept. Q. With just a handful of quirky colleagues,  Morck is tasked with digging into the city’s most haunting unsolved crimes.

It's moody, suspenseful and smart—with just the right amount of heart. Perfect for parents who love a good mystery with complex characters and a little Scottish grit.

8. Eric

Benedict Cumberbatch stars in Eric, a gripping psychological drama about a puppeteer whose son goes missing.

It’s haunting, beautifully acted, and full of emotional twists. One of the most compelling things to watch on on Netflix in our book!

9. Grenfell Uncovered

If you're in the market for a bit of tragedy, Grenfell Uncovered is a must-watch.  Survivors, witnesses and experts tell the story of the tragic fire in 2017 that engulfed a residential tower block in London, leaving 72 people dead—and the investigation that ensued.

10. Tour de France: Unchained

Even if you’ve never touched a road bike, Tour de France: Unchained is a docuseries that is surprisingly addictive.

With stunning visuals and behind-the-scenes access, it’s part sports drama, part human triumph—and a reminder that endurance comes in many forms (hello, parenting).

Whether you're into gritty thrillers, real-life stories, or a bit of historical fantasy romance, these shows offer a welcome escape from the school lunchbox grind. So once the kids are tucked in, press play and enjoy a well-earned grown-up binge.

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