The People vs Robodebt

The People vs Robodebt is a compelling three part docu-drama unravelling the human story behind one of Australia’s greatest political scandals. In the long hot summer of 2016, the Federal Government’s new Online Compliance Intervention scheme roared like a bushfire through Australian society. This automated welfare system soon became known as “Robodebt” and over the next three years, almost half a million Australians were hounded to pay back debts they did not owe. The system was later found to be inaccurate, unethical and illegal. Some people lost their savings, others their homes, and a few lost their lives.

A brave handful of heroes witnessed what was happening and took a stand. This is the story of their fight against impossible odds, of people power versus a government and a bureaucracy that lost sight of the fact they were there to serve the people, not harm them. This emotionally charged political thriller uses a unique blend of drama and documentary to celebrate a band of Aussie battlers in their dogged fight to expose the truth.

Reviews

“Television critics like to throw around the phrase “compulsory viewing”, but rarely has it been more fitting than it is here.” – Sydney Morning Herald/ The Age (★★★★)

“Must watch is an understatement”. ”Political thriller, emotional human drama, a powerful look at people battling the system and the heavy toll it took on many of them: SBS documentary series The People vs Robodebt has it all.”

“The only way The People vs Robodebt could be improved is if the ending featured the politicians and public servants involved being sent to prison.”– Screen Hub (★★★★½)

“It’s devastating to sit with the stories of those whose lives were altered by it — prepare to be enraged.” – West Australian

“However much you might think you know about the robodebt scandal, there’s so much more to be learnt via this horrifying documentary series. In turns bewildering, infuriating, and tragic, The People vs Robodebt is a thorough first draft that dissects a shameful event in Australia’s history.” – Sun Herald and Sunday Age

“I just got the sinking feeling of dread second hand so I can’t even imagine….it’s harrowing but expertly made” – ABC Radio NSW Drive