Isabella Thornton
Here’s everything you need to know about the SBS original documentary series Australia’s Greatest Conman? (2026), including its official premiere date, where to stream it, a full episode breakdown, the complete cast lineup, and a step-by-step guide on how to watch it online from New Zealand without restrictions.
How can I watch Australia’s Greatest Conman in New Zealand on ABC iView?
To stream Australia’s Greatest Conman on the SBS On Demand website from New Zealand, you’ll need to use a reliable VPN. A VPN allows you to bypass geo-restrictions by connecting to an Australian server, making SBS On Demand accessible just like it is within Australia.
- Subscribe to NordVPN
- Install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to an Australia-based server.
- Open the SBS On Demand website, then log in or sign up for a new account.
- You are all set to watch Australia’s Greatest Conman restriction-free!
Australia’s Greatest Conman? Synopsis
Australia’s Greatest Conman? follows Marc Fennell as he uncovers the truth behind John Friedrich, a man who built an elite search and rescue operation during the 1980s. Friedrich presented himself as a national hero, winning awards and securing massive loans from banks. Behind the image, however, was a complex web of fraud, fake identities, and financial deception. The series explores how hundreds of millions of dollars were raised on false claims. It also asks why so many people believed him for so long. Through archival footage, interviews, and investigative reporting, the documentary slowly peels back the myth. What remains is a haunting portrait of ambition and collapse. This is a true-crime story that leaves many questions deliberately unanswered.
When does Australia’s Greatest Conman? premiere?
Australia’s Greatest Conman? premiered on 24 February 2026 on SBS, with episodes also made available to stream on SBS On Demand.
Cast
- Marc Fennell – The journalist and presenter who guides the investigation. His role is central, combining narration, interviews, and on-screen analysis to keep the story focused and accessible.
- John Friedrich – The subject of the documentary. Through archival footage and testimonies, the series reconstructs his rise as a respected leader and his dramatic downfall.
- Kerry O’Brien – Veteran journalist offering sharp insight into the political and media impact of the case, grounding the story in its historical context.
- Hugh Riminton – Provides investigative perspective, explaining how the fraud was uncovered and why it remained hidden for so long.
- Richard Fidler – Adds cultural and narrative depth, helping frame Friedrich’s story as part of a larger Australian media moment.
Australia’s Greatest Conman? Season 1 Episode Guide:
- Episode 1: The Friedrich Factor
This episode introduces John Friedrich and the powerful rescue organisation he led. It shows how he gained trust, funding, and influence, while quietly planting the seeds of deception. The tone is investigative, drawing viewers into the mystery without revealing everything too soon. - Episode 2: The No-Person
The second episode focuses on the unraveling of Friedrich’s carefully built image. As financial records are questioned and identities collapse, the scale of the fraud becomes clear. The episode reflects on what Friedrich gained, what he lost, and why parts of his story still remain unresolved.
Is there a way to watch Australia’s Greatest Conman? online for free?
Yes, you can watch Australia’s Greatest Conman? for free on SBS On Demand, the official streaming platform from SBS. If you are in New Zealand, you will need to use a VPN to connect to an Australian server, which allows you to bypass geo-restrictions legally and safely. Once connected, simply log in or create a free SBS On Demand account and stream the entire two-part series in high quality from anywhere in the world.
Here’s how to sign up for SBS On Demand:
| # | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the SBS On Demand website or open the app |
| 2 | Click Sign In / Create Account |
| 3 | Enter your basic details and email |
| 4 | Verify your email address |
| 5 | Log in and start watching for free |
Trailer
SBS has officially unveiled the trailer for Australia’s Greatest Conman?
FAQs
- Who presents Australia’s Greatest Conman?
Walkley Award-winning journalist Marc Fennell presents and guides the investigation through interviews and historical research. - How many episodes does Australia’s Greatest Conman? have?
The series has two episodes, each taking a deep look at different stages of John Friedrich’s career and the unraveling of his fraud. - Is Australia’s Greatest Conman? based on a true story?
Yes, it is entirely rooted in real events from the 1970s and 1980s involving actual institutions, banking scandals, and interviews with people who lived through the case. - What was John Friedrich accused of?
Friedrich is linked to massive financial deception and fraud, allegedly involving hundreds of millions in today’s value through fake assets and bank loans that funded an elaborate rescue organisation. - Did John Friedrich receive awards?
Yes, he received the Medal of the Order of Australia for his work in community safety and rescue services before his fraud was uncovered.
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