How to get American Netflix in Australia with a fast & secure VPN

A VPN will be helpful if you’re trying to access US Netflix from Australia or anywhere else overseas. Here’s what you need to know about the best VPNs for US Netflix in Australia. 

Netflix users will only be able to access the local content catalog, no matter where the streaming subscription was originally purchased. For example, Americans who are visiting Australia will be unable to watch shows that are exclusively available on Netflix US, being stuck with Australian content instead. 

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a simple solution if you’d like to stream Netflix USA in Australia. Working to encrypt all traffic sent to and from your device, your data is routed through an intermediary server in a different location. You’ll be able to choose the country of origin, and a US VPN server will give you a temporary US IP address. 

This temporary IP address can be used to access content via services like US Netflix while in Australia, so you’ll be able to keep up with your favorite shows from abroad. Netflix does block VPN servers, but many providers are still able to reliably access catalogs from anywhere in the world.

Here are the best VPNs for watching US Netflix in Australia:

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for US Netflix in Australia. Impressive speeds and security, and unique features like Meshnet and NordLynx. Audited no-logs policy, streaming support in the US and elsewhere, and offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. 
2. Surfshark: Our top budget VPN for watching US Netflix in Australia. Unlimited simultaneous devices, fast speeds, locations in 100+ countries, and affordable subscriptions.
3. ExpressVPN: Custom Lightway protocol, servers in 94+ countries, and an uncanny ability to access almost any geo-restricted service worldwide. Beginner-friendly apps and industry-leading support.
4. CyberGhost: Optimized US streaming servers that work with Netflix, along with further American platforms in Australia. User-friendly apps for all devices. 
5. Proton VPN: Advanced provider with lots to offer in terms of privacy and security. Free server locations, Secure Core, and an audited no-logs policy.  
6. IPVanish: Speedy US servers that work well to access various geo-restricted platforms. 
7. Atlas VPN: Fledgling provider offering access to US Netflix and much more. Free locations with a monthly bandwidth cap. 

Summary Table

If you’re in need of a VPN for American Netflix, it can be difficult to identify the best provider for the job. Some VPNs will only work with a few US-based streaming services, and others won’t be able to access any platforms whatsoever.

We narrowed the field with our inclusion criteria. Here are some of the non-negotiable characteristics we looked for when picking out the best providers for US Netflix:

• Servers in the US are necessary for watching TV from the region while abroad, Netflix included. 
• Connection speeds will dictate how efficiently the user is able to perform any online task, and are especially important for streaming content from the US and elsewhere. 
• Streaming access, as well as allowing the user to bypass Netflix restrictions, the provider should work with other US sites and services from abroad. 
• Privacy and security, including everything from notable features to available protocols.
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN must operate a 100% diskless server network and have had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third party.

For more information about the specific criteria we used for picking the best VPNs for US Netflix in Australia, check out the testing methodology section found later in this article.

The best VPNs for watching US Netflix in Australia

Here is an in-depth look at the best VPN providers for watching US Netflix in Australia.

NordVPN should definitely be seen as one of the best options if you’re aiming to access US Netflix from abroad. The provider is capable of accessing a long list of geo-restricted sites and services, including Australian and American content. It works with Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, HBO Max, ESPN, NBC, ABC, CBS, Hulu, and more.

Average speeds of 200 Mbps make it a capable streaming solution, while there are 6,000+ high-speed servers to pick from in 60+ countries. This includes roughly 2,000 US servers in 15+ locations. SmartPlay is helpful if you plan to regularly access US streaming services, offering built-in Smart DNS support along with VPN encryption. Another unique addition is Meshnet, which allows users to create private, encrypted tunnels between trusted devices to pass network traffic. 

An audited no-logs policy will ensure that your data is safe and it can be used for everything from P2P file sharing to accessing the Tor network. There’s a system-wide kill switch, leak protection, obfuscation, a custom protocol, Double VPN, split tunneling, and more. 

You’ll find NordVPN apps for all major devices, including support for some routers and browser extensions. It allows for six simultaneous connections, which is on the lower end, but it should be enough for most users. 

THE BEST VPN FOR US NETFLIX IN AUSTRALIA: NordVPN is a capable streaming provider that includes a vast selection of unique features designed to improve privacy. Great speeds, Meshnet, SmartPlay, and more. Comes with a simple risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of NordVPN.

Surfshark is our top budget pick, working to access a plethora of US services like Netflix while in Australia. 

As well as 20+ Netflix catalogs, Surfshark works with the likes of Disney+, HBO Max, YouTube TV, Sling TV, DirecTV, ABC, Peacock, and CBS. That’s a great result considering it’s a budget provider, while speeds averaging 190 Mbps are quicker than many premium alternatives. 

You’ll be able to use as many devices as you like with a single Surfshark account, avoiding any limitations. There are apps for all major platforms and you’ll find servers in 100+ countries worldwide. This includes the US and Australia, with 600+ servers in the former, and 40+ in the latter. 

A kill switch, leak protection, solid obfuscation, and an audited no-logs policy ensure that your data will remain safe and sound at all times.

Surfshark One includes a couple of premium extras hidden behind a paywall, although there’s no need for a private search engine if you’d just like to gain access to US Netflix from overseas. 

THE BEST BUDGET VPN FOR US NETFLIX IN AUSTRALIA: Surfshark matches up to more expensive alternatives in most respects. Fast speeds for streaming, servers in 100+ countries, audited no-logs policy, access to US Netflix, and more. Simple 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark.

ExpressVPN ticks every box if you’re in need of a provider for watching American Netflix in Australia. It’s a reputable VPN that has been able to bypass most streaming blocks with ease for over a decade, while apps are especially beginner-friendly, no matter your preferred device. 

For example, it should be able to provide access to 24+ Netflix catalogs, which is the highest number on this list. Further US services that can be streamed with ExpressVPN include Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Crunchyroll, YouTube, Disney+, Paramount+, and HBO Max.

Smart DNS is another welcome addition, making it easy to watch US TV content on devices that lack traditional support such as smart TVs and games consoles. 

Once again, it comes with an independently audited no-logs policy, so you won’t have to take ExpressVPN’s word for it when it comes to your personal data. 

Apps and support can be found for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire devices, Linux, and more. If you don’t mind paying a few extra dollars per month, it’s hard to think of many downsides if you’re aiming for a seamless streaming experience. 

BEGINNER-FRIENDLY US NETFLIX VPN: ExpressVPN won’t let you down while streaming US Netflix in Australia, or anywhere else on the planet. Lightway protocol, reliable server speeds, simple apps for all devices, 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

CyberGhost is another great VPN for streaming, ensuring seamless access to US Netflix, along with lots of popular platforms while you’re in Australia.

It has streaming-optimized servers that are labeled within the app, so it’s a good option for anyone who has never used a VPN before. You’ll find 10,000+ servers in a total of 100+ countries, meaning CyberGhost has one of the largest networks on the planet. 

Average speeds of 300 Mbps are quick enough for almost any online task and can be used for anything from gaming to torrenting with great effect. 

Features include Smart DNS, split tunneling, and an always-on kill switch. There’s also a Content Blocker which works to keep malicious websites, tracking scripts, and adverts at bay. However, CyberGhost is missing out on a few extras like port forwarding, even if it is great for streaming. 

Security is watertight, and you’ll find everything from NoSpy servers to a selection of protocols to choose from. There are CyberGhost apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. It can be used with up to seven devices at the same time. 

STREAMING OPTIMIZED US NETFLIX SERVERS: CyberGhost is perfect for accessing a long list of US streaming services in Australia. Capable speeds, optimized servers, zero logs, and leak protection. User-friendly apps for all popular devices, huge server network, and an extended 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost.

Proton VPN is another provider that allows the user to stream via Netflix US from anywhere in the world. Despite being predominantly focused on improving privacy, it also offers access to a vast library of blocked streaming platforms, such as Hulu, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime.

Free servers are a strong addition, and this even includes locations within the US. However, Proton’s free servers can’t be used for streaming, even if you do benefit from an audited no-logs policy available across the board. 

Advanced features include Secure Core servers, along with everything from port forwarding to a VPN Accelerator. The latter aims to improve connection speeds, and an average of 320 Mbps is the fastest you’ll find on this list. 

Proton allows for 10 simultaneous connections, with apps and support for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chromebook, and Amazon Fire devices. As with ExpressVPN, it’s a little more expensive than the norm, but it is a polished service with a lot to offer. 

IPVanish is another capable streaming VPN, allowing the user to access blocked sites and services like US Netflix from anywhere in the world. Average speeds are in excess of 250 Mbps, so you’ll be able to stream 4K content with no slowdown. Security is also top-notch, thanks to 256-bit encryption with perfect forward secrecy.  

The provider is based in the USA, so it’s unsurprising that it makes a big effort to access blocked services in the region. As well as Netflix, it works with HBO Max, Prime Video USA, Disney Plus, CBS, and NBC.

Unfortunately, this doesn’t include Smart DNS support, so you’ll have to look elsewhere if you want to watch content on smart devices without the use of a router. 

IPVanish apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It allows the user to connect with unlimited devices, so you’ll be able to share an account with friends and family if you’d prefer. 

SPEEDY US NETFLIX STREAMS: IPVanish is ideal for streaming Netflix from Australia, with further access to lots of popular US streaming platforms. Speedy servers, no-logs policy, strong security features, no device limits, and apps for all devices. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

Atlas VPN has quickly established itself as a great provider for accessing US streaming platforms from abroad. The provider works with several Netflix international libraries, along with Disney+, Stan, Hulu, and more. It supports the WireGuard protocol, while average speeds work out to 258 Mbps. 

Appealing features include 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch. Rotating IPs (SafeSwap), MultiHop connections, and malware blocking will also help to provide a more secure experience while connected.  

There are free servers, with US locations found in Los Angeles and New York. However, there’s a monthly bandwidth cap of 5 GB, so you’ll run out quickly if you plan to stream 4K content regularly.

You’ll be able to use Atlas VPN with a long list of devices, including support for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It allows for unlimited simultaneous connections, and it’s one of the more affordable providers to make the list. Atlas VPN doesn't have an extensive server network, but it can be used to access your favorite content thanks to reliable connections. 

FREE US SERVERS: Atlas VPN is an up-and-coming provider with free servers and speedy WireGuard connections. Works well with multiple streaming platforms including American Netflix, SafeBrowse, SafeSwap, and affordable subscriptions. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Atlas VPN.

Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for US Netflix  

Rather than picking out providers at random, we’ve compiled a comprehensive VPN testing methodology. We test and compare the best VPNs in the business. 

Only providers dedicated to digital privacy, with excellent usability and optimal performance, can make it onto our list. Below, you can see the criteria we used to pick the best VPNs for the American version of Netflix in Australia.

• US servers: Servers in the US are necessary if you’d like to access streaming services securely with a VPN. Does the provider offer Netflix-optimized servers? As well as American locations for streaming, we’ve factored in the strength of the entire network. This helps if you’d like to access services in other countries like Australia too. 
• Speeds and performance: No matter what you plan to use a VPN for, connection speeds will have an impact on almost any task, such as online gaming. We’ve made a note of the average connection speeds for each provider mentioned above, ensuring a smooth streaming experience.  
• Privacy and security: How does the VPN software perform in terms of security and privacy? We look at features, their implementation, and everything from leak protection to encryption and protocols. 
• Third-party audits: Trust is the foundation of the value that VPNs provide. You are essentially placing more faith in your VPN provider than you are in your ISP. Almost every provider says they are a ‘no logs' VPN. The only ways to test this claim are either through the courts or through audits. We will only consider providers for our top three positions if they have undergone infrastructure audits from a reputable third party. While this isn't foolproof, it's the closest the industry has to a verification process for logging policies.
• Diskless infrastructure: Again, this is a prerequisite to be considered for one of the top three positions on BleepingComputer. While the data stored on a VPN server should be minimal, it could, theoretically, be accessed if the servers were seized or hacked. Moving processes to RAM means that no information can be physically taken from servers and it is wiped on shutdown. It can also easily be wiped as a part of regular security procedures.

How to use a VPN to watch US Netflix in Australia

It doesn’t take long to get started if you want to set up a provider to work with US versions of services like Netflix. We’ve put together a quick guide to take you through the necessary steps. 

Here’s how to set up a VPN to watch US Netflix in Australia:

1. Select a VPN provider that works with Netflix US. We’ve listed several recommendations below, with NordVPN being our top pick overall.
2. Sign up with the provider, and make a note of your login details.
3. Download the relevant VPN app for your device.
4. Open the VPN app, and sign in. 
5. Connect to a server location in the US to be assigned with a relevant IP address.

That’s all it takes to get started, and you’ll be able to access a long list of blocked US sites and services while abroad. If you’re having any trouble, try deleting your cookies to ensure the streaming service doesn’t remember your real location. Alternatively, try another US VPN server, or get in contact with support staff for more help.

Watching Netflix US in Australia: FAQs

Can I use a free VPN for US Netflix?

A free VPN is likely to be tempting for many users, especially as you won’t have to worry about paying for another subscription on top of Netflix. However, free providers tend to be a major security risk, especially as some VPNs have been found to be selling user data to third parties in the past. 

Then there’s the fact that most free VPNs are unable to access US Netflix in the first place, leading to error messages and further issues. Performance also tends to be a problem, with slow speeds and overloaded servers. As such, even if you do manage to find a free VPN that works with American Netflix, you’re probably going to have to deal with endless buffering.

Is streaming American Netflix from abroad legal?

It’s legal to stream American Netflix in Australia insofar as the user won’t be breaking the law if they decide to connect to a VPN. This is the case in most countries, with notable exceptions including Russia and China. Make sure to take the time to find out about local laws before downloading a VPN to your device.

Why does Netflix block users in other regions?

Netflix is obliged to block users in other regions, due to complicated licensing agreements they’ve signed that only allow content to be shown in certain countries. For instance, Netflix could have the rights to broadcast a TV show in the US, but SBS could hold the rights in Australia. As such, Netflix has no choice but to make an effort to block users from overseas, even if they’re only visiting Australia on holiday.

Can I switch to Netflix Australia at any time?

You’ll be able to switch to various different versions of Netflix, whether it’s in Australia or elsewhere. For example, NordVPN works with 23+ Netflix catalogs, including the US. Additional popular English-language Netflix catalogs include the UK and Canada. To stream via Netflix Australia, you can disconnect from the VPN, or choose a server in a location like Sydney.

Can I watch American Netflix without a VPN in Australia?

A proxy service might be able to bypass Netflix blocks from abroad, but the majority suffer from slow speeds and don’t offer any guarantees in terms of privacy. Free proxies also tend to have issues relating to reliability. As such, we’d recommend sticking with an audited VPN for the best results, without any security risks.

How does Netflix know I’m using a VPN?

A VPN IP address might have been flagged and banned by the streaming service in the past, and it’s easy to see if a user isn’t in their normal region. You might have trouble accessing the service if you had Netflix open in a tab before connecting to the VPN server, so you might need to delete the cookies or cache from your device to remove any location data that remains.

Does Netflix ban users if it detects a VPN?

Netflix may attempt to ban or block the IP addresses offered by a VPN server in an effort to stop users from gaining access from abroad. It’s almost unheard of for streaming platforms to directly target paid users, but there is a slight possibility that you could be banned for violating Netflix’s terms and conditions.

Will a VPN slow down my connection speeds?

VPNs used to have a tendency to slow down internet speeds, due to factors like the nature of the encryption method and there being fewer servers to pick from. The providers we’ve mentioned all allow the user to stream 4K content, and exceed the minimum recommended speeds required for UHD quality (15 Mbps). We’ve also made a note of the average speeds we saw with each VPN during testing.