Australian comedy trio Aunty Donna have launched Grouse House TV, a streaming platform dedicated to independent and experimental comedy.Their new interactive sketch, Bandersketch, invites viewers to participate in a choose-your-own-adventure style experience, pushing the boundaries of conventional comedy formats.

With traditional Australian broadcast comedy in decline—adult scripted output has fallen from 520 hours in 1999 to 116 in 2023—emerging comedians face limited opportunities to develop their craft.Grouse House TV draws inspiration from independent US platforms like Dropout, prioritising community-driven content over algorithmic recommendations.

The service features a mix of scripted and improvised shows with established and emerging talent, including Frankie McNair, Lena Moon, Ashley Apap, Jordan Barr, and Alistair Baldwin.Beyond streaming shows, fans can engage directly with the platform through live events and interactive content.

Aunty Donna aim to reclaim nostalgia and foster cultural inclusion by experimenting with genre and satirising contemporary comedy trends, including the growing influence of right-wing comedy podcasts.

By creating a self-sustaining platform, they hope to offer Australian comedians more creative freedom and establish a pathway for sustainable careers, sidestepping traditional gatekeepers in the TV industry.