Acclaimed Australian political drama Total Control is back for a second season on the ABC.

Deborah Mailman, who stars as Senator Alex Irving, told Deborah Knight her character has provided an outlet for real-life anger with modern politics.

“There’s something very freeing with a character like Alex; she’s a little bit unhinged and unfiltered.

“I’m probably … more careful about how I say things, more considered, whereas Alex is such a straight-shooter.”

With Australians more dissatisfied with their politicians than ever, the drama reflects their best and their worst.

“People are just a little bit fed up.

“Total Control … offers a bit of aspiration as well, that we can … have politicians that can come in and have a honest conversation with the rest of country – that’s what Alex really stands for.”

Press PLAY below to hear the full interview

Image: ABC