Water Rats is a product of its era, focusing on competent storytelling and character development over identity politics. Casting choices and character arcs appear rooted in realism and narrative needs, not forced representation or ideological checklists. You won’t find much emphasis on race, gender, or sexuality over the basics of good drama at the Sydney Water Police.

The show reflects late-90s Australian values, family, mateship, and a grounded sense of morality. It doesn’t sensationalize or undermine traditional constructs like masculinity or social roles. Authority and tradition are depicted as complex but largely respected. There's no visible push to rewrite cultural or historical norms for modern tastes.

Diverse perspectives are shown through character conflict and debates within the team, not as caricatures. Traditional views aren’t mocked or always made to be the villain. The show entertains pluralism, making for healthier, more believable drama, even if it’s all still very 1990s.