Is “Call the Midwife” On Netflix Australia? A Comprehensive Guide
Is “Call the Midwife” currently gracing the screens of Netflix Australia? Unfortunately, as of today, the answer is no: Call the Midwife is not available on Netflix Australia.
What is “Call the Midwife” and Why is it so Popular?
“Call the Midwife” is a critically acclaimed British period drama television series based on the memoirs of Jennifer Worth, a nurse and midwife working in the impoverished East End of London in the 1950s and 1960s. The show intricately weaves together heartwarming tales of childbirth and community spirit with the harsh realities of post-war Britain. Its realistic portrayal of midwifery, coupled with compelling storylines and strong characters, has garnered a devoted following worldwide. The series deftly explores social issues such as poverty, healthcare disparities, and women’s rights, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. Its popularity stems from its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia, compassion, and hope.
The Current Streaming Landscape in Australia
Australia’s streaming market is competitive, with several major players vying for subscribers. Besides Netflix, platforms like Stan, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BritBox, and ABC iview offer a wide range of content. Licensing agreements dictate which shows and movies are available on each platform, and these agreements can change frequently. This fragmented landscape often requires viewers to subscribe to multiple services to access all the content they desire. As a result, many Australian viewers actively search for specific shows like “Call the Midwife” across different platforms to determine the best streaming option.
Why “Call the Midwife” Might Not Be on Netflix Australia
The availability of television shows on streaming platforms is governed by licensing agreements. These agreements are negotiated between production companies and streaming services, and they often vary by region. Several factors influence whether a show like “Call the Midwife” is available on Netflix Australia, including:
- Exclusive Rights: Another streaming service might have secured exclusive rights to stream “Call the Midwife” in Australia.
- Licensing Fees: The cost of licensing the show could be prohibitive for Netflix Australia.
- Geographic Restrictions: The original licensing agreement might restrict distribution in certain territories.
- Existing Broadcasting Agreements: Australian free-to-air television networks might hold the rights to broadcast the show, preventing it from appearing on Netflix.
Alternative Streaming Options for “Call the Midwife” in Australia
If “Call the Midwife” is not on Netflix Australia, there are several alternative streaming options available:
- BritBox: BritBox often carries British television shows, including “Call the Midwife.” It is a paid subscription service.
- ABC iview: The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) is the producer of the series and sometimes streams the episodes or seasons on its free platform, ABC iview, for a limited time after broadcast.
- Foxtel/Binge: Check whether Foxtel or their streaming service Binge carries the show.
- Purchase or Rent: You can often purchase or rent episodes or seasons through platforms like Google Play Movies, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video.
- Physical Media: Consider buying the DVD or Blu-ray box set to own the series outright.
Checking for Updates and Availability
The availability of streaming content can change frequently. Here are some tips for staying updated:
- Official Streaming Platform Websites: Regularly check the websites of Netflix Australia, BritBox, ABC iview, and other relevant platforms.
- Streaming Guides and Trackers: Use online streaming guides and trackers to monitor where “Call the Midwife” is available in Australia.
- Social Media: Follow the social media accounts of streaming platforms and “Call the Midwife” to receive announcements about new releases and availability.
- Google Search: Perform regular Google searches using the query “Is “Call the Midwife” On Netflix Australia?” to see if there have been any updates.
Comparison of Streaming Services
| Streaming Service | Availability of “Call the Midwife” (as of Oct 26, 2023) | Subscription Cost (Approx. AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix Australia | No | $10.99 – $22.99/month |
| BritBox | Often Available | $8.99/month |
| ABC iview | Potentially (Limited Time) | Free |
| Binge | Potentially Available | $10 – $18/month |
| Stan | No | $10 – $21/month |
| Amazon Prime Video | No | $6.99/month |
Staying Legal: Avoiding Unofficial Streaming Sites
It is important to only stream content from official sources. Using unofficial or illegal streaming sites poses several risks:
- Malware: These sites are often riddled with malware and viruses that can harm your devices.
- Copyright Infringement: Streaming copyrighted content illegally is against the law.
- Poor Quality: The video and audio quality on unofficial sites is often subpar.
- Lack of Security: These sites may not be secure, putting your personal information at risk.
- Support for Creators: Streaming from legal sources supports the creators and actors involved in producing the show.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I legally stream “Call the Midwife” in Australia?
BritBox is often the most reliable option for legally streaming “Call the Midwife” in Australia. ABC iview may also occasionally offer seasons for a limited time after broadcast. Purchasing episodes through platforms like Apple TV or Google Play Movies is also a legal alternative.
Is Netflix Australia likely to get “Call the Midwife” in the future?
It’s impossible to say definitively whether Netflix Australia will acquire the rights to “Call the Midwife” in the future. Licensing agreements are constantly renegotiated, so availability could change at any time. Keep checking official sources for updates.
Why is “Call the Midwife” available on Netflix in other countries but not Australia?
Licensing agreements are often region-specific. Netflix has to negotiate separate agreements for each country, and the cost or terms may not be favorable for Netflix Australia.
How can I find out when new episodes of “Call the Midwife” air in Australia?
Check the TV guides for Australian channels like ABC. Also, follow the official “Call the Midwife” social media accounts for announcements.
Is it safe to use a VPN to watch “Call the Midwife” on Netflix in another country?
Using a VPN to access content from other countries may violate Netflix’s terms of service and could result in account suspension. While it’s technically feasible, it’s not necessarily advisable.
Are all seasons of “Call the Midwife” usually available on streaming services?
Not always. Some services may only offer select seasons. BritBox tends to have more comprehensive collections than other platforms, but it’s always best to confirm before subscribing.
Can I watch “Call the Midwife” on free-to-air television in Australia?
The ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) typically broadcasts “Call the Midwife.” Check their TV schedule or ABC iview for availability.
Is there a way to request that Netflix Australia add “Call the Midwife”?
While there is no guarantee that it will influence their licensing decisions, you can submit a title request to Netflix through their help center or social media channels.
Does the availability of “Call the Midwife” depend on my Netflix subscription plan?
The availability of “Call the Midwife” does not depend on your Netflix subscription plan. If the show were available on Netflix Australia, it would be accessible to all subscribers regardless of their plan.
Are there any similar shows to “Call the Midwife” that I can watch on Netflix Australia?
While not directly comparable, Netflix Australia offers other period dramas and medical dramas that you may enjoy. Try searching for series like “The Crown,” “Downton Abbey,” or “The Good Doctor” for similar themes.
How often do streaming services update their content libraries in Australia?
Streaming services update their content libraries regularly, often on a weekly or monthly basis. This means that a show not available today could be available in the future.
If “Call the Midwife” is removed from a streaming service, will I receive a notification?
Streaming services rarely provide direct notifications about content removals. It’s best to periodically check the availability of your favorite shows and movies.