Australian Microdrama: A Guide to the Format and the Scene
By Racheal Leigh, Australian microdrama screenwriter & producer.
Last updated: 01 October 2026
A microdrama is a serialised drama shot vertically for mobile phones, and told in very short episodes of around one to three minutes, that always end on cliff-hangers. They’re also called short dramas, vertical dramas or mobile dramas, and the format started in China (originally known as Duanju). This guide explains what microdramas are, how they differ from other vertical video, who’s making them in Australia, and how to get involved.
Vertical video vs microdrama: what’s the difference?
“Vertical” describes the screen shape. “Microdrama” describes the storytelling format. All microdramas are verticals, but not all verticals are a microdrama.
The confusion between the two seems to be common here in Australia. Here, “vertical drama” and “direct-to-audience” often refers to content made for socials such as for TikTok, Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts.
There used to be a length difference also. Many of the drama apps that focus on microdramas used to require 60-80 episodes for a microdrama screenplay, but now a ten-episode series can also work in the microdrama format. This also makes it a more accessible way to experiment when starting out making microdramas, before moving into microdramas built for monetised apps and international audiences.
Microdramas
- A fast-paced serialised drama series built specifically for vertical viewing
- Multi-episode scripted series with only a few characters and single plot line
- Short episodes, rising stakes, an emotional hook at the start, a cliffhanger at the end
- Dedicated microdrama apps, plus social platforms
Vertical Drama
- Any video shot in a 9:16 phone format
- Creator clips, skits, ads, social posts, standalone shorts, traditional style web series
- Can be any structure
- Often listed on social channels – TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts
How big is the microdrama market?
Omdia forecasts about US$14 billion in global microdrama revenue by the end of 2026, and Media Partners Asia puts the market outside China at around US$4.2 billion this year. Apps such as ReelShort and DramaBox have built a large American following for these low-budget, soapy series.
Australia’s microdrama scene
Australia is still at an early stage. Funding pathways here have traditionally favoured features, television and long-form work. But Australians are already watching microdramas. These apps are global, and Australian viewers are consuming the content, often without seeing it as a distinct category.
Australian-made Microdramas
Australian filmmakers have been making vertical series for quite a few years. Productions like Content (ABC, 2019) by Ludo Studios (noted as one of the first Australian-made vertical series), have been doing well and more productions are released each year.
But I’ve only come across a few Australian-made microdramas so far – if I’m missing something from this list, let me know!
FAQs
What is an Australian microdrama?
In this guide, it’s a vertical, serialised drama written, written in a specific format, and produced or filmed in Australia by Australian creators.
Are there Australian-made microdramas?
Yes, a small but growing number. See the list above.
Is a TikTok sketch series a microdrama?
Not always. A microdrama follows a specific format of scripted drama with hooks and cliff-hangers. Most social vertical content isn’t.
How do I make a microdrama?
Start with a microdrama screenplay, put together and start filming! If you need a microdrama script, check out Vertical Drama Scripts.
Where can I learn more?
Through our Skool community or join in on the next Australian Microdrama Forum.