In 19th century Australia, a young boy named Ned grows up in a harsh and unforgiving environment. Living with his struggling Irish immigrant family, Ned witnesses the brutal oppression by British colonial authorities. His mother, Ellen, becomes an influential figure in his life, pushing him towards defiance and resistance. After a series of traumatic events and provocations from the law, Ned eventually falls under the mentorship of bushranger Harry Power. This relationship sets him on the path of becoming an outlaw, driven by a desire to protect his family and strike back against the injustices they face.

As Ned matures, he forms a gang with his brother Dan and two close friends. Together, they embark on a campaign of robbery and rebellion against the authorities. The gang's exploits capture public attention and they become folk heroes to some, while being hunted as criminals by others. Central to their story is the quest for dignity and resistance against an oppressive regime, which leads them further into conflict and violence.