The ABC will expand its children’s slate in 2026 with two new titles – the live-action comedy Caper Crew and animated sitcom Happy House.
The projects, revealed at the Australian Children’s Content Summit in Coffs Harbour, are backed by Screen Australia, the Australian Children’s Television Foundation (ACTF) and state screen agencies.
New directions in children’s storytelling
Caper Crew follows siblings Amelia and Kai Delaney whose lives are disrupted when their grandmother, a con artist named Queenie, arrives and introduces them to the world of scams.
The plot centres on their hunt for the “Woodspring Nug,” a priceless artefact.
The series marks the first children’s production from Easy Tiger. Guy Edmonds (Hardball) is set to direct the pilot, joined by Stef Smith (It’s Fine I’m Fine) and Shelly Lauman (Birdie).
Writing credits go to Keith Thompson (Lockie Leonard), Matthew Whittet (Heartbreak High), Amy Stewart (Beep and Mort), Jack Yabsley (Gold Diggers), and Erica Harrison (Gold Diggers).
Exploring digital culture through animation
Happy House takes on the world of online fame, with characters who are animals producing their own viral content. The story follows a group of teen animal creators managing friendship, rivalry and teenage pressures in the digital era.
The series is co-created and written by Alix Beane (Surviving Summer) and Marisa Nathar (Rock Island Mysteries). It will be animated by 12field Animation and produced by Media World Pictures, with Kelly Lynagh (The Flamin’ Thongs) directing.
Industry support
ABC Director of Screen Jennifer Collins said the broadcaster was committed to delivering new Australian stories for young audiences.
“The ABC is proud to deliver on our commitment to world-class children’s stories and we’re delighted to bring these original series to the screen,” she said.
“Happy House dives into content-creator culture with sharp humour and fun, and Caper Crew brings mystery and mayhem with a uniquely Australian quirkiness.”
ACTF Head of Content Bernadette O’Mahony added: “These two projects are fresh, clever and original and are set to become family favourites. Happy House is a hilarious and whip-smart animation that kids will relate to, while Caper Crew is a quirky and comedy-led live-action series that will keep audiences guessing.”
Screen Australia’s Director of Narrative Content Louise Gough noted the mix of genres: “We’re excited to support Easy Tiger’s first foray into children’s content with Caper Crew, a live action series full of adventure and heart, set to captivate kids and parents alike. Media World Pictures’ animation Happy House offers a timely look at happiness in a contemporary online world, in a fun and adorable way.”