In episode one, we meet Australians from diverse backgrounds facing a range of challenges, from unemployment to addiction and a lack of housing. Single mother Norma is facing homelessness and Kiwi shelter residents Jarrod and Sharon battle to overcome addiction.

Michael finds himself at war with his brother as they try to deal with their mother's will and Allan is trying to get his new landscaping business up and running - but it's one step forward and two steps back as he battles bureaucracy and his creditors chasing unpaid loans. In Brisbane's south-west, Jarrod and Sharon are at breaking point as they battle to stay clean from drugs and keep their family together.