If you’re like most people in Australia, you probably enjoy streaming your favorite movies and TV shows online.
But what do you do when you find out that some of the best content available in the US is not accessible in Australia?
Frustrating, right?
Well, worry no more because we’ve got you covered!
In this article, we’ll introduce you to the best VPN services that will unlock US Netflix, HBO Max, NBC, and other streaming services in Australia.
And that’s not all! We’ll also share with you the best VPNs for privacy to ensure that you can browse the internet without being monitored or worrying about cyber security breaches.
Whether you want to enjoy the best streaming content or torrent movies and games, you need to know the best VPNs for Australia.
So, let’s get started and discover the best VPN services for streaming and privacy for your desktop or mobile phone.
Our Top Picks for the Best VPN for Australia
Best VPN for
Streaming
Surfshark can unlock US streaming services such as Netflix, HBO Max, and NBC that are not typically accessible in Australia due to restrictions. It is also marketed as the most secure VPN for browsing privacy and has a No Logs policy, ensuring absolute privacy. Surfshark is known for its high speed and split tunneling feature. This VPN is especially suitable for gaming, streaming and private browsing.
Best VPN for
Torrenting
This VPN is one of the fastest on the market and super secure. They’ve even passed two independent third-party audits to confirm that they don’t keep any logs. Recent speed tests show that NordVPN is blazing fast all across their network of servers. Plus, NordVPN is one of the few VPNs that has full WireGuard VPN support built right into their apps. This means you get super secure and super speedy connections.
Best Free
Australia VPN
While it’s primarily a paid service, ProtonVPN offers a completely free plan that allows you to try it out without any financial commitment. The free version has some limitations, such as restricted VPN server selection and medium speeds, but it’s still a great way to see if ProtonVPN is right for you. Unlike other VPNs that only offer a free trial, ProtonVPN lets you use the free version for as long as you want.
Why do I need a VPN for Australia?
Firstly, the Australian government is supposed to receive your metadata from Australian ISPs. They keep this for two years, even simple information like your location. There are rumors that they may also provide the authorities with your web history! Not good at all.
Secondly, there is a rise in cyberattacks. particularly in nations like Australia. That is where a VPN is useful. Your connection is encrypted so that no one can see what you are doing. Additionally, your IP address is concealed, so you are totally secure.
Third, the Australian government keeps expanding its list of websites that are blocked. they blocked over 80 websites! A lot of the ones they blocked are big names you might use, like Piratebay. But with a VPN, you can bypass those blocks and access them anyway.
Fourth reason is that US Netflix, NBC and HBO Max are not available in Australia. There are many really good shows that are running on these streaming sites, but without a VPN, you cannot watch them.
Criteria for the Best VPN in Australia
When choosing a VPN service in Australia, there are several criteria to keep in mind to ensure that you select a reliable and secure provider. Here are some important factors to consider:
- Server locations: Good VPN providers should have VPN servers located in multiple countries. This allows you to switch server locations depending on where you are and provides speed and reliability.
- Bandwidth: The service should support fast, unlimited bandwidth so that streaming is smooth and free of lag.
- Encryption: High-end encryption is important for security online, so the service should use strong encryption protocols like SSH or OpenVPN. This would guarantee privacy and protection against cyber attacks.
- No logging policy: A good service should not keep any identifying logs that could lead to user data being compromised. This way, your browsing activities remain anonymous and private.
- Customer support: A reliable VPN service should have responsive customer support that is available to help you whenever you need it.
- Multi-device support: It's also important to consider if you can connect multiple devices at the same time with no limitations.
By taking these criteria into account, you can choose a VPN service that meets your needs and provides a secure and reliable online experience. Out of the many VPN services that are available on the market, we have composed a list of the best VPNs for Australia.
What are the best VPN services for Australia?
Read the full NordVPN review
NordVPN is a great pick if you’re looking for the best VPN provider for Australia. It is a popular and well-rated VPN service provider with a global server network spread across five countries—Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the United States—providing you with 200+ VPN server locations to choose from.
NordVPN offers advanced security features like double encryption, a kill switch, and Smart DNS protection, making it secure and user-friendly for users of all ages and skill levels. Its no-log policy makes it an ideal choice for those concerned about privacy. Additionally, its affordable pricing makes it a great value for money option
In addition to these features, NordVPN is also known for having one of the fastest VPN connection speeds. It provides reliable internet connection, whether you’re streaming or torrenting. It provides optimized streaming performance via its proprietary server architecture, resulting in a lag-free streaming experience, as well as enhanced protection against online security threats via its anti-malware service.
Moreover, NordVPN is free from annoying ads. It’s offering premium features such as double data encryption and P2P support. This makes it the best value for money VPN service out there.
NordVPN pros
- NordVPN is a popular VPN service for secure and private internet connections.
- It has a wide range of features that appeal to security-conscious individuals.
- Its ability to unblock geo-restricted services, like streaming Netflix US and local content in Australia, is one of its best features.
- NordVPN is also known for its fast connection speeds, with VPN servers in 60 countries worldwide.
- It has locations across the Asia-Pacific region, enabling users to access local content from anywhere in the world.
- NordVPN can bypass online service firewalls, such as those of Amazon Prime or Hulu.
NordVPN cons
- Torrenting supported only by a limited server network
NordVPN pricing
- From $11.99 per month for the monthly plan
- From $4.99 per month for the annual plan
- From $3.99 per month for the 2-year plan
Read the full Surfshark review
Surfshark is a top-notch Australian VPN provider that offers highly-optimized servers for American streaming services to easily unblock international VoD services such as Voot in Australia. It has an extensive server network in five cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide. The server locations are optimized to provide fast connection speeds and reliable service for users. It has approximately 70 servers in total.
The service boasts fast connection speeds with optimized server locations, which is why it is the best VPN for iWonder and can unblock the channel within seconds when connected to its Australian server. Surfshark is known for its reliable security features and encryption standards. The service supports 256-bit encryption and provides a kill switch to protect user data from DDoS-style attacks and DNS leaks. However, it is free only for limited usage per day. In other words, users may want to try other premium VPN options before opting for Surfshark free version.
SurfShark pros
- Fast and reliable servers in over 190 countries
- Zero logs policy for increased privacy
- 256-bit encryption for outstanding security features
- User-friendly interface for easy use
- Ideal for data-intensive activities such as streaming media and online gaming
- Provides flexibility and privacy-preserving VPN service
- Allows access to the internet from anywhere in the world
- Offers a wide range of features for a great VPN experience
SurfShark cons
- Limited server locations in Australia
- Static IP address (IP doesn’t change on new connections)
- Some user data is stored according to the data retention laws
SurfShark pricing
- $17.40 per month for the monthly plan
- $5.36 per month for the annual plan
- $2.75 per month for 2 years + 2 months plan
- Includes a free plan with up to 500 MB per month
- Pay with a Credit card or PayPal
Read the full CyberGhost review
Cyberghost is one of the best VPN software for Australia, and it is because of its incredible features and server reliability. Its features include protection against cyber threats, access to streaming services that are geo-restricted in Australia, protection from the 5 Eyes surveillance alliance, and compliance with mandatory data retention laws in Australia.
Cyberghost is known for providing access to various streaming services that are restricted in Australia. This is because it allows users to access Australian television and shows from abroad. It also provides anonymity and encryption so that users can surf the net without being tracked or harassed by third-party entities.
In conclusion, Cyberghost is a reliable and secure service that provides access to various online services and software in Australia. Thus, it is one of the best Australian VPN services.
CyberGhost pros
- Large and fast network of server locations in more than 100 countries worldwide
- Allows users to find a nearby VPN server for streaming their favorite content
- Best known for its support of streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video
- Offers advanced protection feature to choose the required encryption level to access online resources
- User-friendly and available on all major operating systems including macOS, Android, iOS, Windows, and Linux
- Features customized modes for various purposes such as gaming or torrenting
- Popular for its security features including kill switch and app kill switch
- Offers excellent performance and is a reliable VPN service
- Worth considering if you want to unblock streaming services from anywhere online.
CyberGhost cons
- Lacks configuration options, making it difficult to tailor the service to user preferences and security needs
- User interface is not always user-friendly and can be cumbersome to use
- Known for its unstable software and occasional crashes
- Lacks dedicated apps for routers, which can make integrating the service into a user’s online privacy strategy more challenging
CyberGhost pricing
- $12.99 per month for the monthly plan
- $6.99 per month for the 6-monthly plan
- $2.03 per month for 2 years + 4 months plan
- Pay with credit cards, PayPal, or anonymously with Bitcoin
Read the full Atlas VPN review
Atlas VPN is a good choice for Australian users looking for a fast and secure VPN service. The service offers five servers with an average speed of 7.3/10. These servers support users in the AU, CN, JP, US, and UK regions. Each server features DNS leak protection, unlimited bandwidth, and double security encryption.
Additional features include user-friendly apps, server selection features, and server speed monitoring. Overall, Atlas VPN is an excellent choice for online privacy and security in Australia.
Atlas VPN pros
- Superb service for accessing American Netflix and other streaming sites, while maintaining security and privacy
- Offers a no-logs service to ensure anonymity and privacy
- Provides fast speeds to enhance user experience
- Has an app-based user interface, making it easy to use from anywhere in the world
- Features malware filtering capabilities to protect users from online dangers
Atlas VPN cons
- Lacks support for VPN routers
- Has average OpenVPN speed
- Takes more time to connect to distant locations compared to other premium VPNs
- May not be the best option for users who prioritize speed, security, or cost over other features
Atlas VPN pricing
- The basic subscription costs $8.32 per month
- The premium subscription costs $12.95 per month
- There is a 30-day money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the service
- Has a free trial available
Read the full ExpressVPN review
ExpressVPN is a fast and user-friendly VPN for Australia with 5 city locations, access to international streaming sites, and air-tight security.
It offers leak protection, split tunneling, and a kill switch (network lock) to ensure your online privacy is protected.
With ExpressVPN, you can access Australian media, streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
The service uses strong encryption and secure applications to guarantee your data is safe and secure while browsing the internet.
That being said, you can also use the service to access blocked content in countries with internet censorship restrictions.
Its server network is fast enough to support streaming HD videos without lag or interruption.
ExpressVPN pros
- ExpressVPN is one of the fastest and most secure VPN services available in the market.
- It offers support for a wide range of platforms and encryption protocols.
- The service has more than 2,000 servers in 94 countries, making it easy to bypass geo-restrictions and access streaming content from all over the world.
- ExpressVPN can unblock popular streaming services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.
- The VPN supports torrenting on all its servers, making it an excellent choice for torrenting enthusiasts.
- ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, which means it is free of data retention laws and a great option for privacy-conscious users.
ExpressVPN cons
- Speed throttling is a potential downside of ExpressVPN, as users may experience slower speeds when using the service.
- The service may have slower long-distance speeds compared to some of its competitors.
ExpressVPN pricing
- The pricing of ExpressVPN is more expensive compared to other VPN services in the market.
- ExpressVPN does not accept payments through PayPal, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- ExpressVPN does not support Bitcoin payments, which may be a concern for users who prefer to pay with cryptocurrencies.
- The yearly subscription price of ExpressVPN is more expensive compared to other VPN services.
- ExpressVPN offers a 3-month free offer on an annual plan, which can save users money.
- ExpressVPN does not offer a free trial, but users can still test the service risk-free with the 30-day guarantee.
Read the full Mullvad review
Mullvad is the best private VPN service provider in Australia, as it has the fastest servers in 6 Australian cities and provides ideal protection against Australian snoopers. Mullvad is also a leader in ensuring that your online activity remains private, and has the highest number of available Australian cities to connect to, with an IP address in Canberra.
Mullvad Australian servers had an average speed of 9.8/10. This is because of its strict no-logging policy, which ensures maximum privacy for its users.
Apart from being secure and private, Mullvad is also user-friendly and affordable, making it a great choice for anyone looking for reliable VPN software for Australia.
Overall, if you are looking for a private and trustworthy VPN service provider in Australia, then Mullvad is the best choice for you.
Mullvad pros
- Fast and secure connection with server locations in 6 Australian cities
- Mullvad is a privacy-focused service, protecting user online activities and data from security threats and data theft
- Fastest server speeds in each city for protection against data snooping from Australian ISPs and surveillance agencies
- Privacy-focused with a no-logging policy and data retention, ensuring personal information remains private
- Access to popular streaming sites like Netflix
- It can be used on both desktop and mobile devices
- User-friendly option for those looking to access streaming services from anywhere in Australia.
Mullvad cons
- The quality of customer service is not that great
- It is not compatible with the majority of streaming services
- The website could be more informative
Mullvad pricing
- Mullvad offers an excellent price-performance ratio, with plans starting at $5 per month
- Offers subscription packages for 1 month, 1 year and 1 decade
- They accept cash, Bitcoin, PayPal and almost all payment methods
- There is no free trial
Read the full IPVanish review
IPVanish is one of the best VPNs for Australia. It offers over 50 Australian servers in cities such as Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide. With server locations spread across the globe, you can access fast and reliable internet connection wherever you are. It features double encryption for data security and kill switch to prevent data leaks.
This service also provides WireGuard protocol for good speed while maintaining security. It also offers 500GB of encrypted storage and free SOCKS5 proxy to hide your IP address. Finally, it offers VPN traffic obfuscation to hide that you’re using any virtual private networks. Overall, IPVanish is a great service with many features to offer.
IPVanish pros
- IPVanish is a top-rated VPN service with strong security features
- Global access to over 80 server locations in 60 countries
- Works with over 500 streaming providers for unrestricted content access
- One of the fastest VPNs available for fast downloads and streaming
- Affordable pricing for its premium service
- It is known for its speed, stability, and security, making it a popular choice for users who demand the best privacy and security possible.
- It is one of the few VPNs that truly supports torrenting, allowing users to download torrents with no speed loss or leakages.
- It provides consistently fast download speeds and low latency, making it a great option for streaming and gaming.
- It offers special features like access to P2P without data throttling, kill switch capabilities, and DNS leak protection.
IPVanish cons
- IPVanish lacks some important security features such as kill switch, DNS leak protection, and app whitelisting, which can lead to security breaches.
- The service speed throttles bandwidth after a certain amount is used, which can be a security concern.
- Not effective at unblocking Netflix or other streaming services due to strict US data protection laws.
- IPVanish has limited server locations and potentially less security than other services.
IPVanish pricing
- Costs $11.99 per month for the monthly plan
- Steep discounts to 3.33 per month when going with the annual plan
- It does not support Bitcoin payments making it inflexible for certain use cases.
- Offers a 30-day money back guarantee
Read the full PrivateVPN review
Private VPN is a service based in Sweden that offers a watertight no logs policy and AES encryption. It provides apps for all platforms with a kill switch, DNS leak protection, port forwarding, and obfuscation.
This service is very fast and works with around 20 Netflix regions. It has a 30-day money-back guarantee, is very privacy-friendly, and is one of the best free VPN services available right now.
Private VPN pros
- Built on a no-logs policy to ensure user activities remain private and secure.
- Uses encryption to guarantee online privacy and security.
- Features a kill switch to prevent accidental data connection severing.
- Offers DNS leak protection, port forwarding, and obfuscation to protect user anonymity online.
- Specializes in unblocking streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
- Allows torrenting and P2P file-sharing with privacy and security.
- Offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for small businesses or personal use.
Private VPN cons
- No support for Bitcoin payments
- Lack of router support
- Potential speed throttling issues
- Doesn’t support IPv6
- Limited number of servers compared to other VPN services
Private VPN pricing
- Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee
- The monthly plan costs $9.90 per month
- The 3-month plan costs $6 per month
- The triennial plan costs only $2 per month
- Has a 7-day free trial
Read the full Private Internet Access review
Private Internet Access is an affordable VPN service and highly recommended for Australia, with prices starting as low as $2.03 per month.
It has an extensive network of 35,000 servers spanning 84 countries, making it one of the largest server networks in the world.
Private Internet Access also stands out for its impressive features such as built-in ad and malware blockers, robust encryption, split tunneling, and a customizable kill switch, among others.
Private VPN pros
- The very good average speed of 108 Mbps in Australia
- Unblocks streaming sites
- One of the cheapest VPN services
- Reliable Kill Switch (blocks internet connection if VPN drops) on all platforms
- Supports unlimited devices, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android
- Strong AES-256 encryption
- No logs policy for your absolute online privacy
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- AdBlocker and anti-malware included
- Split tunneling to decide which traffic goes through the VPN
Private VPN cons
- Customer support sometimes isn’t available instantly
Private VPN pricing
- $11.95 per month for the monthly plan
- $3.33 per month for the annual plan
- $2.03 per month for the 3-year + 3-months plan
- Includes a 7-day free trial
Read the full Proton VPN review
Proton VPN is a highly secure and privateVPN for Australia that operates in 67 countries with over 1900 server locations. The desktop version of Proton VPN is available as well.
This VPN also utilizes advanced security measures such as AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN protocol as its standard protocols. Additionally, Proton VPN is based in Switzerland which offers further privacy advantages.
Proton VPN pros
- In Australia, it provides decent speed, averaging at 75 Mbps
- Offers VPN for both Android and iOS mobile applications
- Comes with AdBlocker and anti-malware features
- Compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems
- Has Secure Core technology, which provides additional protection from hackers and surveillance agencies
- Adheres to a no-logs policy to safeguard your online privacy
- Its Swiss jurisdiction further strengthens the privacy benefits.
Proton VPN cons
- Does not have an Australian server
- The Kill Switch feature is exclusively accessible through the desktop application
- A restricted number of servers support torrenting and P2P connection
- Customer support is solely available through email (no live chat support)
Proton VPN pricing
- $4.99 per month for the 2-year plan
- Includes a free VPN plan that’s limited to 1 connection
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best VPN for Australia
Below are some popular and most frequently asked questions about VPN service providers and best VPN apps for Australia.
Why Do I Need a VPN Connection in Australia?
A virtual private network is a service that creates a secure connection between your computer and a server outside of your physical connection. A VPN is a must-have tool for any privacy-conscious user.
The data security and privacy features of a VPN allow you to access online streaming services, download torrents, and surf online without fear of your personal information being compromised. With a VPN, you can easily access all the content that is available online, but stay secure and private at the same time.
The key to protecting your privacy while online is to use a VPN service that offers security features such as encryption protocols, kill switch capabilities, and data backup options. It is also important to use a service with secure VPN servers in multiple locations across the globe.
This will allow you to choose the server location that best fits your needs, regardless of where you are located. However these features only work if you have the correct security setup on your device.
Is Using VPN Services in Australia Legal?
Using a VPN is legal in Australia, as there are no laws directly prohibiting its use. However, it is generally considered an illegal activity if users are trying to hide their identity or activities from online service providers and authorities.
If Australians are using a VPN for legitimate reasons such as privacy or access to streaming services that are banned in their country, it is still illegal to use a VPN to commit crimes online or to engage in illegal activities. In addition, your internet service provider must monitor and log all data browsing by law and may be able to detect activity related to a VPN.
The ban on cryptocurrency exchanges across the country is likely playing a part in the increase in VPN use. By preventing the trading of digital assets that can be used as money, authorities have less means of tracking user activities and conducting internet censorship-related activities.
What is the Best Australia VPN for Streaming
If you are looking for a fast, reliable, and privacy-focused VPN service for streaming in Australia, there is only one choice: NordVPN.
With multiple server locations across the country and excellent streaming and torrenting capabilities, it is the best overall VPN for streaming in Australia.
If you want an Australian IP address with a privacy-first policy, TunnelBear is also worth considering with its 9.5/10 security and privacy rating. It is a good option for users who want quick and easy access to geo-restricted content from anywhere in the world.
Can I Get a Free VPN for Australia?
The short answer is yes.
While it is primarily a paid service, Proton VPN does offer a completely free plan with some limitations.
The free version of Proton VPN is not as fully featured as the premium version and is restricted to 100+ servers in the US, Netherlands, and Japan with medium speeds and a single connection.
This means that users will be limited in terms of server selection and connection speeds. While most VPN services have a free trial, they still operate predominantly on a paid plan. With Proton VPN you can try out the free services without committing to a paid plan for as long as you want.
Key Takeaways for Australian VPN
VPN is the best security blanket against hackers, data thieves, and surveillance agencies. Australia is no exception to this.
As a torrenting-friendly nation with strict data retention laws, there is little that cyber criminals can’t access if they have access to your personal data.
With a VPN software, however, you can access the open internet with encryption and anonymity tools that allow you to surf the web with peace of mind.
If security is your main concern and streaming is essential for you, then we suggest trying out these best VPNs for Australia.
