In today’s globalized world, the ability to stream content from anywhere is more important than ever. Whether you’re an Australian expat missing home, a traveler on the go, or simply someone who loves Aussie television shows like Home and Away or MasterChef Australia, a VPN is your key to unlocking Australian TV from anywhere in the world.
As someone who spends a good chunk of my time streaming shows from all corners of the globe, I’ve come to rely on VPNs to bypass geo-restrictions. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the 5 best VPNs to watch Australian TV Anywhere in 2024, giving you my honest take on what makes each one stand out.
What is a VPN and Why Do You Need One for Australian TV?
Before we discuss the best VPNs to watch Australian TV, it’s important to understand why you need one to watch Australian TV if you’re outside Australia. Australian streaming platforms like ABC iView, 7plus, and 10play geo-restrict their content, meaning they’re only accessible from within Australia. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) helps you circumvent these restrictions by masking your IP address and making it appear as though you’re browsing from an Australian location.
This is where a VPN really comes in handy, it not only helps you access Australian shows but also keeps your internet activity private and secure. Let’s get started with the list of the 5 Best VPNs that can help you watch Australian TV from anywhere in 2024.
5 Best VPNs to Watch Australian TV
1. ExpressVPN: Speed and Reliability Combined
If you’re serious about streaming Australian TV in high definition, ExpressVPN should be at the top of your list. Known for its lightning-fast speeds, ExpressVPN provides seamless streaming without any lag or buffering issues. It offers servers in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth, making it an ideal choice to access popular Australian TV channels.
Key Features
- Superfast Speeds: No one wants buffering in the middle of their favorite show, and with ExpressVPN, you won’t have to worry about that.
- Multiple Australian Server Locations: This gives you flexibility in choosing the best server for optimal streaming.
- User-Friendly Interface: Setting up and using ExpressVPN is a breeze, making it accessible even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.
- Robust Security: Your data stays private with its military-grade encryption and no-logs policy.
2. NordVPN: Best for Security-Conscious Viewers
NordVPN is one of the most secure VPNs on the market, perfect for those who value privacy as much as streaming. But don’t let its focus on security fool you—NordVPN delivers excellent streaming speeds that can easily handle HD and 4K streams of Australian TV content.
Key Features
- Double VPN Protection: If you’re especially privacy-conscious, NordVPN routes your traffic through two servers for double encryption.
- Hundreds of Australian Servers: With servers in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Perth, you’ll have no problem finding a fast connection for streaming.
- SmartPlay Technology: This feature optimizes your connection for streaming, making it easier to access geo-blocked content like Australian TV.
- Affordable Long-Term Plans: NordVPN offers some of the most competitive pricing, especially if you opt for a long-term plan.
3. Surfshark: Best Budget-Friendly Option
For those looking to access Australian TV without breaking the bank, Surfshark is the way to go. Don’t let the budget pricing fool you—Surfshark packs a punch with fast speeds, solid security, and unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can stream Australian TV on multiple devices at once.
Key Features
- Unlimited Devices: Whether you’re streaming on your phone, laptop, or smart TV, Surfshark lets you connect as many devices as you want.
- Fast and Consistent Speeds: While it’s not as fast as ExpressVPN, Surfshark still delivers speeds that are more than enough for HD streaming.
- Whitelist Feature: This allows you to route certain apps or websites outside the VPN tunnel, which can be handy if you want local access to certain apps while using a VPN to stream Australian TV.
- Budget Pricing: Surfshark is one of the most affordable premium VPNs, especially with its long-term plans.
4. CyberGhost: Best for Streaming Beginners
If you’re new to VPNs and want a simple solution to watch Australian TV abroad, CyberGhost is the perfect pick. It’s incredibly user-friendly and offers specialized servers optimized for streaming, taking the guesswork out of choosing the right server.
Key Features
- Streaming-Specific Servers: CyberGhost makes streaming easy by offering servers specifically optimized for accessing Australian TV channels.
- Great Customer Support: If you ever run into any issues, CyberGhost’s 24/7 customer support is there to help.
- Wide Server Network: With servers in Melbourne and Sydney, you can easily find a reliable connection for watching Australian TV.
- 45-Day Money-Back Guarantee: This is one of the most generous refund policies in the industry, giving you plenty of time to decide if CyberGhost is right for you.
5. IPVanish – Ideal for Multiple Device Connections
IPVanish is a reliable choice for streaming Australian TV, especially if you need to cover several devices. Offering unlimited simultaneous connections, it’s an excellent option for families or individuals who want VPN access on all their devices.
Key Features
- Unlimited device connections: Enjoy VPN protection on as many devices as needed, all with a single subscription.
- SugarSync backup: IPVanish includes 250GB of cloud storage, providing extra security for your important files.
- Fast U.S. servers: With high-speed servers in Australia, you can stream Australian TV seamlessly without interruptions.
- 256-bit AES encryption: Robust encryption ensures your online activities, including streaming, remain private and secure.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a VPN for Australian TV
Not all VPNs are created equal, and when it comes to streaming, there are specific features you should look out for. Here’s a checklist of key factors to consider when picking a VPN for Australian TV:
- Server Locations in Australia: The more servers a VPN has in Australia, the better your chances of finding a fast, reliable connection.
- Speed and Performance: For buffer-free streaming, you’ll need a VPN that delivers high-speed connections. Look for VPNs with fast servers that can handle HD or 4K streaming.
- Unblocking Capabilities: A VPN must be able to bypass geo-restrictions effectively. Some streaming services have strong VPN-blocking technology, so choose one that can consistently unblock platforms like ABC iView, Foxtel Go, and 7plus.
- Security and Privacy: Strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and DNS leak protection are essential for keeping your online activity secure while you stream.
- Device Compatibility: Make sure the VPN you choose supports all the devices you plan to use for streaming, including smart TVs, mobile devices, tablets, and laptops.
- Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support is a bonus if you need help troubleshooting access to a particular streaming platform.
How to Ensure a Buffer-Free Streaming Experience
One of the most frustrating experiences while streaming is constant buffering or interruptions during your favorite show or live sports match. To avoid this, here are a few tips to ensure a smooth streaming experience with your VPN:
- Choose the Right Server: Connecting to a server closer to your actual location within Australia (e.g., Melbourne if you’re on the East Coast) can improve your speed.
- Upgrade Your Internet Connection: If your base internet connection is slow, no VPN can make up for that. Ensure you have adequate bandwidth, especially for HD and 4K streaming.
- Use a Wired Connection: If you’re streaming on a desktop or smart TV, try using a wired Ethernet connection for more stable speeds, as Wi-Fi can sometimes cause fluctuations.
- Enable Split Tunneling (if available): Some VPNs, like ExpressVPN and Surfshark, offer a split tunneling feature that allows you to route specific traffic through the VPN while keeping other apps connected directly to your local network. This reduces the load on your VPN connection, improving overall performance.
- Clear Cache and Cookies: Sometimes old cache files or cookies can slow down your streaming experience. Regularly clearing your browser cache can help optimize streaming speeds.
Using a VPN for Australian TV on Streaming Platforms
In addition to the free-to-air Australian TV channels, several popular streaming platforms based in Australia can be accessed with a VPN:
- Binge: A newer platform that focuses on streaming TV shows and movies, including some exclusive Australian content.
- Stan: Known for its vast library of Australian and international shows, Stan is one of Australia’s leading streaming platforms.
- Foxtel Go: Offers a wide range of sports, entertainment, and movies, making it a must-have for any Aussie TV lover.
- Kayo Sports: Specializes in live sports streaming, covering everything from the AFL to cricket and rugby.
- 10play and 7plus: Free streaming platforms that host some of Australia’s most popular shows and live sports broadcasts.
Final Tips for Selecting the Right VPN in 2024
Here are a few final pointers to help you choose the best VPN for watching Australian TV in 2024:
- Read the Fine Print: Always check the VPN provider’s terms and conditions regarding streaming. Some VPNs might work temporarily but get blocked later on by the streaming platform.
- Opt for a Free Trial or Money-Back Guarantee: Many premium VPNs offer free trials or 30 to 45-day money-back guarantees. This gives you a chance to test the VPN before committing long-term.
- Check for Hidden Costs: Some VPNs advertise low prices but may charge extra for premium features like faster speeds or more server locations. Always double-check what you’re signing up for.
- Look for Special Promotions: VPN services often run promotions, especially during holidays or special events. It’s worth keeping an eye out for discounts and deals to get the best value for your money.
FAQs
Can I watch live Australian TV with a VPN?
With the right VPN, you can stream live Australian TV channels like 9Now, ABC iView, and SBS from anywhere in the world. Just make sure to connect to an Australian server for smooth streaming.
How do I choose the best VPN for Australian TV?
When choosing a VPN, consider factors like speed, server locations, ease of use, and your budget. If you’re planning on streaming in HD or 4K, opt for a VPN that offers fast speeds and multiple Australian server locations.
Can I use a free VPN to watch Australian TV?
While free VPNs exist, they typically come with limitations such as slower speeds, fewer servers, and weaker security. They may also fail to unblock Australian TV channels due to their inability to bypass sophisticated geo-restrictions.
Will using a VPN slow down my internet connection?
VPNs can sometimes slow down your internet connection because they reroute your traffic through an encrypted server. However, premium VPNs are designed to minimize this impact, often offering speeds fast enough to stream in HD or 4K without noticeable lag or buffering.
Wrapping up
Concluding up our list of 5 best VPNs to Watch Australian TV Anywhere in 2024. Whether you’re trying to catch up on your favorite Australian soap opera, stream live sports, or enjoy some Aussie reality TV, these VPNs will make sure you enjoy every bit of your streaming experience. Each one offers a unique combination of features that will help you unlock Australian content from anywhere in the world while keeping your connection private and secure.
