Since 1988, Home and Away has been a staple of Australian television – and one of its most successful exports. Over its more than 8,000 episodes, the long-running soap has helped launch the careers of stars such as Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Isla Fisher (Now You See Me), Ryan Kwanten (True Blood), and Samara Weaving (Scream VI) to name a few.
For Aussie actors looking to build credits, gain experience on a fast-paced set, and get in front of a loyal local and global audience, Home and Away continues to offer a golden opportunity. If you’re wondering whether a stint on the show is for you – and how to get cast – read on.
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At its heart, Home and Away is a character-driven drama focused on the lives, loves, and challenges of the residents of fictional Summer Bay. With storylines spanning everything from teen romance to courtroom drama, from small-town gossip to life-altering tragedy, the show delivers a wide range of arcs for its characters (and, subsequently, its actors) to explore.
With the central characters encompassing foster families, high schoolers, surf lifesavers, and hospital staff, it offers diverse and plentiful entry points for different casting types. Home and Away’s blend of realism and heightened soap storytelling makes it a fantastic training ground for actors of all stripes.
Casting for Home and Away is handled by Mullinars Casting Consultants, with Hannah Charlton the current lead and Keziah Morgan as her casting assistant. Charlton keeps a low public profile, but Mullinars has shared a wealth of audition advice that gives insight into what they look for. Above all: “Be prepared, be flexible and open to direction, and be genuine,” the agency says. “Directors are deciding if they want to work with you, just as much as they are deciding if you are right for a role. Let them see the real you.” In short, come ready, come open to collaboration, and come as yourself.
On flexibility, a case in point is Hemsworth’s casting. Hemsworth originally went up for the role of Robbie Hunter, but was called back to read for Kim Hyde, nailing and winning the role. Isabella Giovinazzo, who played Phoebe Nicholson, was asked to sing and slow dance with future co-star Nic Westaway during her audition. Olivia Deeble, who joined the show at just 13, underscored Mullinars’ advice to come prepared: “Know your lines, make strong choices, and do backstory work,” she told the Daily Mail.
If you’re itching to join the Home and Away cast, your route will inevitably pass through Mullinars. The team casts most roles via agent submissions, but you may be able to request a general meeting, known as a “go-see.” Ensure that your casting profiles are current, complete, and include a headshot, CV, and short but strong showreel.
If asked to submit a self-tape, “keep it clear and simple,” Mullinars suggests. Shoot it against a neutral background, with good lighting and clear audio. Most of all, understand the show. Watching recent episodes will help you master the tone.
For additional advice and inspiration, check out our guides to becoming an actor in Australia and signing with one of our top agents.
