The Best Australian Picture Books Every Child Should Own

There is something special about reading a picture book set in a landscape your child actually recognises. When the illustrations show red dirt instead of snow, gum trees instead of oaks, and wombats instead of badgers, stories feel closer to home. Australian picture books do more than entertain — they help children see their own world reflected back at them and build a sense of belonging in the stories they love.

Australia has an incredibly rich tradition of children’s literature, and some of our picture books are genuinely world-class. Whether you are building a collection for a newborn, looking for a meaningful gift, or simply want to add more Australian voices to your child’s bookshelf, here are some titles that belong in every Aussie home.

Possum Magic by Mem Fox

No list of Australian picture books would be complete without Possum Magic. Mem Fox’s beloved story of Grandma Poss and Hush travelling across Australia to reverse an invisibility spell has been a staple of childhood since 1983. The illustrations by Julie Vivas are warm, whimsical, and utterly charming, and the story is a beautiful introduction to Australian cities, food, and wildlife. If you own only one Australian picture book, make it this one.

Diary of a Wombat by Jackie French

Jackie French’s Diary of a Wombat is laugh-out-loud funny for both children and adults. Told from the perspective of a very determined (and slightly grumpy) wombat, the story follows a typical week of digging, sleeping, and negotiating with the humans next door. Bruce Whatley’s illustrations perfectly capture the wombat’s stubborn charm. It is the kind of book children want to hear again and again — and you will not mind reading it.

The Rainbow Serpent by Dick Roughsey

This retelling of one of Australia’s oldest and most important Dreaming stories introduces children to Aboriginal culture and the creation of the Australian landscape. Dick Roughsey’s bold, vibrant artwork brings the story to life in a way that is both respectful and captivating. Sharing First Nations stories with children is a meaningful way to connect them with the deep history of the land they live on.

Are We There Yet? by Alison Lester

Alison Lester’s Are We There Yet? takes readers on a family road trip around Australia, visiting the Kimberley, the Great Barrier Reef, Tasmania, and everywhere in between. The illustrations are rich with detail, and the story captures the excitement, boredom, and wonder of a classic Aussie family holiday. It is a gorgeous way to show children the diversity of the Australian landscape without leaving the lounge room.

Where the Forest Meets the Sea by Jeannie Baker

Jeannie Baker’s stunning collage illustrations take readers into the Daintree Rainforest in Far North Queensland. A boy and his father visit the ancient forest by boat, and the child imagines the creatures that lived there millions of years ago. The book is a quiet, contemplative experience that encourages children to notice and appreciate the natural world. It is also a gentle introduction to environmental themes.

Wombat Stew by Marcia Vaughan

A dingo catches a wombat and decides to make stew, but the other bush animals have other ideas. Wombat Stew is a fun, rhythmic read-aloud with a satisfying twist ending. Children love the repetitive refrain and the cast of Australian animals — platypus, echidna, emu, and koala all make an appearance. It is a fantastic choice for younger readers who enjoy interactive, participatory stories.

My Country by Dorothea Mackellar (illustrated editions)

Dorothea Mackellar’s famous poem “My Country” has been published in several beautifully illustrated picture book editions. The sweeping language captures the drama of the Australian landscape — droughts and flooding rains, wide brown plains, and jewel-like seas. Sharing this poem with children gives them a vocabulary for the land around them and introduces them to one of Australia’s most iconic pieces of writing.

Building a Bookshelf That Feels Like Home

A great children’s bookshelf has a mix of stories from around the world, but it should also include voices and settings that feel familiar. Australian picture books give children the gift of seeing their own country, wildlife, and culture celebrated in the stories they love. They also make wonderful gifts for families overseas who want to share a little piece of Australia with their children.

You can find a handpicked selection of Australian picture books and other favourites in the Picture Books section at Story Bear. Every title is chosen with care, and we deliver Australia-wide with free shipping on orders over $50.

Which Australian picture books are on your child’s shelf? We would love to hear your favourites.