Struggle Street

8.0

2015•55m

The series sheds light on the struggles and aspirations of residents in public housing areas around Western Sydney; areas which have been commonly associated with high unemployment, drug use and problems with the law.

Production

Seasons

3 Episodes • Premiered 2015

Hosted by Janice Petersen, experts will dissect the issues, discuss the problems and seek solutions around the major themes raised in Struggle Street; from mental health, to drug issues, entrenched disadvantage, welfare, housing and the experience of those from CALD backgrounds. We also hear first-hand from invited audience members and politicians from all sides to hear what's been done, and what more can be done, to alleviate the challenges for struggling Australians.

1. Episode 1

In the first episode, three very different stories of individuals and families struggling to get by. From a large blended family to a single parent household, and a homeless man living rough in the suburban bush - we'll see stories of challenge, hardship and triumph against overwhelming odds.

2. Episode 2

This episode, Peta and Ashley's family dramas come to a head, when son Corey's drug use leads to an explosive confrontation outside the family home. Nearby, long-time heroin addict Bob is facing his own demons. Not only is he fighting off possible eviction - his pregnant girlfriend has disappeared with all the money he has. But despite all this, the ties that bind this community remain strong, as former teenage troublemaker Chris rallies the neighbourhood to save the job of the local church pastor.

3. Episode 3

In the final installment of this three-part series, parents Ashley and Peta look to the future, after ice-addict Corey’s dramatic exit from the family home. Peta is turning her attention to community work, and has big plans for the upcoming local Christmas Fair. Twenty-three year old son Tristan is forging a new role as a disability spokesperson, and all eyes are on youngest son Zac to carry the hopes of the family forward. But the good news is tinged with sadness, after Ashley receives a worrying medical diagnosis. For twins Michelle and Cheryl, could a family surprise mean they can put years of conflict behind them? And in bushland adjacent to Mt Druitt, homeless man William is re-assessing his future.