A young policeman’s first day on duty becomes a violent and highly charged initiation into law enforcement, as the rookie cop becomes involved in a case of suspected domestic violence.

Through the use of stereotypical characters, realist vernacular, physical brutality and frequent profanity, Williamson investigates ‘ocker culture’ and the violence and sexism which lurked underneath the veneer of Australian society. In doing so, he made room for Australian voices in a new and shocking way.

Remarkable for its blend of boisterous humour and horrifying violence, The Removalists has since acquired a reputation as a classic statement on Australian authoritarianism and is a key work in the study of Australian drama.