'Subject to Change': Fans clamour for new LGBT-focused Australian drama

After airing its pilot episode last week, an Australian made-for-TV drama that sheds light on LGBT youth has caught the attention of viewers looking for a fresh and original story.

“Subject To Change” is a revolutionary series that features, for the first time, same-sex attracted lead characters and the harsh difficulties they face in suburban Australia. Despite its relatively quiet premiere on the show’s YouTube channel on Jan. 9, “Subject To Change” is already gaining ground and establishing its own fan base.

The pilot episode revealed the TV drama’s main characters: neat freak Ben (Aiden Debono), rambunctious tomboy Karly (Maryann Wright) and drama queen Evie (Katy Avery). These three high school students captured the hearts of those who watched the first installment, as they deal with their complex and conflicting emotions.

Most of those who watched the show gave it glowing reviews. YouTube user Asia colon expressed how she loved the show and wrote, “This was amazing. I like to see new series like this that are diverse and show how life is for teens.” Another fan who goes by the username Demian Ds said that he could watch the episode over and over again. “I've been waiting for this. I am so happy....I loved it,” Demian Ds added.

YouTube user Ben J also said he loved the pilot episode. “I have never related more to a show, in just one episode! I love how realistic it is, it's not over the top drama, like most teen shows,” Ben J wrote.

“Usually pilots for these types of shows aren't so great. But this is amazing, I'm excited to see what this series will bring. I really hope you find someone to take you on,” YouTube Tanika's Misadventures wrote. One fan, who goes by the username Andrew Cooper, said that he hopes ABC or SBS will choose to air this “beautiful and relatable show for the teens of Australia.”

The creators of “Subject To Change” also expressed their hopes of finding a network or streaming service to help them reach a broader audience. In a comment on the show’s YouTube channel, they wrote, “We wish we could bring you the whole series right away but for now we're looking worldwide for media providers (TV or streaming) who are passionate to make it with us. In the meantime, stay tuned here for announcements on other future content.”

According to the show’s official web site, the pilot episode of “Subject To Change” was created, produced and directed by Daniel Mercieca. It featured other cast members including Ethan (James Ritchie), Amanda (Ashleigh Carmody), Ms Pearson (Kate Worsley), Ms Karras (Julia Ohannessian), Bel (Erin Kebby), Adam (Jayden Pinnington) and Rafiq (Sarry Habra).