The Seven Network’s outback medical drama RFDS has delivered its biggest season yet, becoming Australia’s most-watched free-to-air drama on consolidated viewing in 2025.
Season three reached 4.59 million Australians and attracted an average total TV audience of 1.028 million across seven-day consolidated viewing up 17% on its 2023 season.
On-demand viewing accelerates
The series continues to build strong momentum on 7plus, with average episode audiences jumping 79% season-on-season.
In its first seven days on 7plus, RFDS recorded a 41% increase per episode, cementing its position as one of the streaming platform’s strongest on-demand performers.
The season wrapped last night with its biggest finale yet, reaching 1.4 million people nationally. The movie-length final delivered a total TV audience of 761,000 for part one and 707,000 for part two up 36% and 38% respectively.
“Australians have a strong appetite for homegrown drama”
Seven Group Managing Director, Television, Angus Ross, said RFDS has been a standout performer in a competitive primetime landscape.
“RFDS has excelled in its 7.30pm timeslot. It grabbed hold of the fantastic lead-in that Home and Away provided and took off proving that Australians have a strong appetite for premium, homegrown drama in prime time.
“RFDS has become one of the most popular shows on 7plus, with the consolidated audience growing 79% on last season. Australians are not only embracing the series but they’re increasingly watching it when it suits them.”
A tribute to real-world heroes
Seven’s Director of Content, Scripted, and Executive Producer on RFDS, Julie McGauran, said the show continues to resonate due to its blend of human stories and real-world stakes.
“With its gripping storytelling, breathtaking outback landscapes and authentic portrayal of emergency services, RFDS has cemented itself as essential viewing for drama lovers nationwide.
“Seven is proud to tell stories that reflect the courage, compassion and complexity of life in remote Australia, and to honour the emergency services heroes who inspire every episode.”
RFDS winner of the 2024 TV WEEK Logie Award for Best Drama Program is produced by Endemol Shine Australia (a Banijay Entertainment company) in association with Seven.
The series received major production investment from Screen Australia, Seven, and the South Australian Film Corporation, with post-production and visual effects supported by Screen NSW. Banijay Rights handles international distribution.