Back to the Rafters is an Australian family comedy‑drama television series that premiered on Amazon Prime Video on 17 September 2021. It serves as a spin‑off and sequel to the earlier Seven Network series Packed to the Rafters (2008–2013), continuing the story of the Rafter family six years after the original series concluded.
Premise
The narrative follows Dave and Julie Rafter, who have relocated to a rural setting with their youngest daughter, Ruby. The series explores the challenges faced by the Rafter children—Ben, Nathan, and Rachel—as they navigate adulthood, as well as the experiences of their grandfather, Ted, who seeks purpose in later life. Themes include family dynamics, personal growth, and the balance between urban and country lifestyles.
Production
- Creator: Bevan Lee
- Executive Producer: Julie McGauran
- Producer: Chris Martin‑Jones
- Production Company: Seven Studios
- Filming Location: Sydney, New South Wales (principal photography commenced in 2020, paused due to the COVID‑19 pandemic, and concluded on 2 October 2020).
The series was announced in September 2019 under the working title Back to the Rafters and was confirmed for distribution on Amazon Prime Video rather than the Seven Network. Casting retained most of the original main ensemble, including Rebecca Gibney (Julie Rafter), Erik Thomson (Dave Rafter), Hugh Sheridan (Ben Rafter), Angus McLaren (Nathan Rafter), and Michael Caton (Ted). Jessica Marais withdrew from the project for personal reasons and was replaced by Georgina Haig as Rachel Rafter.
Broadcast and Episodes
Back to the Rafters consists of a single season comprising six episodes, each with a runtime of approximately 45 minutes. The series was released weekly on Amazon Prime Video in September 2021. In October 2021, Amazon announced that the series would not be renewed for additional seasons.
Cast (selected)
- Rebecca Gibney as Julie Rafter
- Erik Thomson as Dave Rafter
- Hugh Sheridan as Ben Rafter
- Angus McLaren as Nathan Rafter
- Georgina Haig as Rachel Rafter
- Willow Speers as Ruby Rafter
- Michael Caton as Ted Rafter
Reception
Critical response was generally positive. Reviewers highlighted the series’ blend of humor and heartfelt family storytelling, noting that it retained the tone of its predecessor while updating themes for contemporary audiences. The Sydney Morning Herald awarded the series three and a half stars, praising its “welcome return” and accessibility to both longtime fans and new viewers. Commentary in The Conversation emphasized the series’ authenticity and relatable character dynamics.
Home Media
In May 2022, Via Vision Entertainment announced a DVD release of the complete season for Region 4 (Australia).
See also
- Packed to the Rafters – the original series to which Back to the Rafters is a sequel.
Back to the Rafters is notable as one of the early Australian scripted dramas produced for Amazon Prime Video, illustrating the platform’s expansion into original regional content.