What Is the Best VPN for Sydney in 2024?

While online users in Sydney, Australia still enjoy a “free” experience, their online freedom has decreased in the past few years, dropping one point to 75/100 in the Freedom House Freedom on the Net 2021 rankings. (0 = Least Free, 100 = Most Free.)

Internet Service Providers (ISPs) continue to voluntarily block access to select websites, and in June 2020, Australian Parliament passed the Online Safety Act, which expanded Australia’s notice-and-takedown capabilities, enabling additional website blocking, increasing access to users’ data, and providing additional powers to the eSafety Commissioner.

In February 2021, Facebook, while still available, briefly blocked news content for Australian users when the News Media and Digital Platforms Bargaining Code was enacted. Other social networks continued to be available in the country.

Hackers increasingly targeted Australian public institutions over the last year or so, and ISPs temporarily restricted internet connectivity for users whose devices have become a part of a botnet, or are at high risk of being infected with malicious software.

The government is also cracking down on websites that host or link to copyrighted materials, including Pirate Bay and Kickass Torrents.

Plenty of streaming services are available in Sydney and the rest of Australia, including Netflix,  SBS, ABC, Seven West, Nine (available through 9Now), and Optus Sport. However, on some of the services, the available content is different from what you can find in other countries.

However, Sydney-based online users can avoid the above restrictions and inconveniences by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

A VPN encrypts your connection to hide your online travels from being monitored, allowing you to fly under the radar of hackers, government types and your ISP.

A VPN can also assign a fresh IP address to your connected device, which can make it look as if you and your device are connecting from another part of the world. This enables access to online content that normally isn’t available in Sydney. Or, if you’re traveling abroad, you can use the VPN to access content limited to Sydney and the rest of Australia.

In this article, I tell you the 6 best VPNs for Sydney, Australia.

How to Use a VPN in Sydney

To use a VPN in Sydney, follow these easy steps:

1. Subscribe to a reliable VPN provider. (NordVPN is my #1 pick.)
2. Install the VPN’s app(s) on your favorite device(s).
3. Log into the VPN service.
4. Select a VPN server located outside of Sydney to access your favorite content in other countries. Or, connect to a server located in Sydney or elsewhere in Australia if you simply desire to protect your online activities or if you’re located outside of Australia and need to grab an IP address inside of Australia.
5. Enjoy your newfound internet freedom!

Best VPNs for Sydney

My testing showed that the 6 VPN providers listed below are tops for use in Sydney.

The Reader’s Digest condensed version is:

1. NordVPN: This top-ranked provider offers top-notch VPN protection for a reasonable price. NordVPN’s fast, well-protected connections to a large global server network provide reliable access to content around the globe.
2. Surfshark: This provider boasts an impressive global server that provides reliable access to geo-controlled content nearly anywhere in the world. Surfshark delivers fast, well-protected connections for an unlimited number of devices at once.
3. ExpressVPN: This well-respected VPN provider has been around for quite a few years and has earned a well-deserved reputation for top-notch VPN services. Excellent encryption, fast download speeds, impressive global server coverage, and comprehensive app support are the rule here.
4. CyberGhost: First-time VPN users will appreciate this provider’s easy-to-use yet powerful VPN services. CyberGhost’s apps deliver one-click access to an impressive global server network, which includes servers optimized for streaming and downloading.
5. IPVanish: This provider is a bit lacking in some VPN service categories, while excelling in others. IPVanish’s extra layer of privacy protection is thanks to its self-owned and self-operated global server network.
6. PrivateVPN: While this provider’s global server coverage is a bit thin, it makes up for it with its fast connection speeds and proprietary “Stealth VPN” feature. Unfortunately, app support is limited to the Big 4 device platforms (Android, iOS, macOS and Windows).

When I ranked the providers on this list, I considered the following factors:

• Global server network (bonus for servers in Sydney)
• Security and privacy features
• Connection speeds
• App support
• Customer support

TRY A QUALITY VPN RISK-FREE: You’ll find that most quality VPN services offer a risk-free free trial period. While you will usually have to pay upfront, the providers’ money-back guarantees offer a no-risk opportunity to give a VPN service a try and cancel your subscription for a full refund during the 30- to 45-day trial period.

Here is my list of the 6 best VPNs for use in Sydney.

1. NordVPN

Apr 2024

The top VPN provider on this list, NordVPN, provides comprehensive VPN services for a quite reasonable price.

NordVPN’s global server network includes 5,100+ servers located in 60 countries around the world, with more than 190 servers based in Australia. (Servers are located in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.) That impressive network delivers reliable access to geo-controlled content around the globe.

The provider owns and manages its server network, keeping third-party contractors away from its customers’ information.

The provider’s online security protections keep your online travels undercover thanks to banking-level 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and IPv6 and DNS leak prevention. NordVPN also offers ad and malware blocking.

Your personal privacy is also well protected thanks to the provider’s no-server-logs policy and cryptocurrency option for subscriptions. In addition, NordVPN operates all of its servers 100% from RAM. No data whatsoever is ever written to a physical hard drive. All data is securely wiped from the provider’s servers whenever they are restarted.

The provider’s fast connections can easily handle HD and 4K streaming, gaming and other popular online activities (depending on your usual, ISP-delivered connection speeds). No bandwidth throttling or data caps to worry about here.

NordVPN app support includes options for the Amazon Fire, Android, Android TV, iOS, Linux, macOS (boasting native M1 Mac support) and Windows device platforms. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are available to protect your browser sessions, along with extensive router compatibility.

Users can connect up to 6 devices to the service at once.

Customer support is always available, offering 24/7 live support chat, email support and a searchable knowledge base.

BEST VPN FOR SYDNEY USERS:Sydney, Australia internet users looking for comprehensive VPN service should take a close look at NordVPN. Fast, well-protected connections from a large global server network are standard features here. The provider has most popular devices protected. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

My #2 provider, Surfshark, scores this position thanks to its extensive VPN services, delivered at a low price.

Surfshark has gone from having one of the smaller networks in the VPN industry to having one of the largest.

The provider has 3,200 servers based in 65 countries (including Australia, with servers in Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne), providing reliable access to content around the globe. Surfshark says it delivers access to 30+ international Netflix libraries.

Surfshark connections keep your online travels incognito by using government-grade 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS and IPv6 leak prevention. The service’s “Multi-Hop” option routes users’ connections through two VPN servers for added encryption and anonymity.

A strict no-server-logs policy and acceptance of Bitcoin team up to help protect your privacy.

Surfshark provides blazingly-fast connections that can easily handle HD and 4K video streaming, large file downloads and online gaming (with the usual caveat about ISP-provided connection speeds). No bandwidth throttling or data caps with this provider.

The provider’s app lineup includes apps for the Android, iOS, Linux, macOS (native M1 Mac support), Windows and Amazon Fire device platforms. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available, along with extensive router compatibility.

There is no limit on the number of devices you can protect at once thanks to the provider’s unlimited simultaneous connections policy.

Around-the-clock support includes always-attended support chat, a contact form and a support knowledge base.

BEST VPN FOR BUDGET-MINDED SYDNEY USERS:Surfshark’s budget-priced extended subscriptions deliver fast and well-protected connections for an unlimited number of connections, “Multi-Hop” VPN protection and access to content around the globe. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Surfshark.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a well-established and well-respected VPN provider. While the provider is more expensive than other providers on this list, it also delivers premium services.

The provider’s global server network includes 3,000+ servers in Australia and 93 other countries. (Servers are stationed in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.) The network provides reliable access to geo-controlled content around the globe.

The provider uses military-level 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and IPv6 and DNS leak protection to protect its customers’ connections. A split-tunneling option in some ExpressVPN apps allows users to pick and choose which apps will use the provider’s encrypted protection.

A strict no-server-logs-ever policy and a Bitcoin subscription payment option help protect your privacy.

ExpressVPN’s connection speeds are some of the fastest around and are well up to handling 4K and HD video streams, online gaming and large file sharing. This provider never inflicts any data caps or bandwidth limitations.

App support includes options for the Amazon Fire, Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Linux and Windows device platforms. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are also available. The provider’s recently-updated router firmware helps protect all of your connected devices.

Up to 5 devices can connect simultaneously on a single account.

Customer support options include 24/7 live support chat, email support, a trouble ticket system and an easily searchable support library.

RELIABLE VPN PROTECTION FOR SYDNEY:ExpressVPN is my #3 VPN choice for users located both inside and outside of Sydney. Reliable, well-protected connections provide access to content around the world. Its connection speeds are up to any online activity you enjoy. A 30-day, no-risk money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

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4. CyberGhost

VPN-using rookies will appreciate CyberGhost’s easy-to-use VPN services.

The CyberGhost global server network boasts 7,400+ servers located in 90+ countries, including Australia. (Server farms are located in Melbourne and Sydney.) The network includes streaming- and file sharing-optimized servers stationed in multiple locations around the globe.

The provider uses military-level 256-bit AES encryption, IPv6 and DNS leak prevention, and an automatic kill switch to protect its customers’ online travels. Ad and tracker blocking, as well as the ability to force websites to serve up HTTPS versions of their pages when available, are also included.

A no-server-logs-ever policy and a Bitcoin subscription payment option help protect your privacy.

Additional privacy and security tools are available from CyberGhost, including a password manager and a feature that will warn you if/when your email address is found in a data breach. Antivirus protection for Windows PCs is also included, as well as a scanner to detect outdated and vulnerable apps on your PC’s hard drive.

The provider’s fast download speeds will be attractive to streaming fans, gamers or users who download and share files. Unlimited bandwidth and data are the rule here.

CyberGhost’s easy-to-use app lineup includes options for the Amazon Fire, Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Linux and Windows device platforms. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are available, along with comprehensive router protection.

Up to 7 devices can connect to the service at once.

24/7 customer support options include around-the-clock live support chat, email support, a trouble ticket system and a searchable support database.

BEST VPN FOR NEWBIE USERS:First-time VPN users should be attracted to CyberGhost’s excellent and easy-to-use protection. Streaming- and downloading-optimized servers are available around the globe. Fast, well-protected connections are part of the deal. A 45-day, no-risk money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of CyberGhost.

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5. IPVanish

While IPVanish’s proprietary server network is smaller than many of its competitors, it is working to greatly expand it.

The provider’s global server count currently sits at 1,900+ servers located in 55+ countries around the globe (including servers in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Auckland and Melbourne). The provider says it is working to expand its server network in the near future.

The provider owns and operates its server network instead of leasing servers, which provides an extra layer of privacy by keeping third party contractors away from customers’ personal information.

Banking-grade encryption and an automatic kill switch protect your online travels, while a “scramble” feature disguises your VPN activity as normal browser activity. A WireGuard connection protocol option is currently in the works.

No cryptocurrency subscription payment option is to be found. However, the provider does follow a strict no-server-logs policy.

IPVanish connections are more than up to handling large file sharing, online gaming and streaming video. No data caps or bandwidth throttling to worry about with this provider.

IPVanish offers apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, ChromeOS and Amazon Fire devices. You can manually set up the provider on Linux computers. Chrome or Firefox browser extensions are not available. However, router support is available.

The provider places no limit on how many devices users can concurrently connect on a single account.

The provider’s 24/7 customer support includes live support chat, a searchable support library and email support.

EXTRA PRIVACY FOR UNLIMITED DEVICES:IPVanish’s comprehensive online security and privacy protections include a proprietary global server network, along with top-notch connection protection. The VPN service provider offers an unlimited simultaneous connections allowance to prevent your running out of VPN protection. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of IPVanish.

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6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN lacks the server coverage of other providers on this list, but overall, it provides above-average VPN service.

The provider’s somewhat sparse global server network has 200+ servers stationed in 63 countries around the globe (Australia included, with servers in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney). While the network is spread a bit thinly, it does a reliable job of providing access to blocked content in the areas where it is available.

Government-level connection encryption and IPv6 and DNS leak protection are used to protect PrivateVPN-provided connections. A “Stealth VPN” feature hides your VPN activity by disguising it as normal browser traffic.

A strict no-server-logs-ever policy, as well as a Bitcoin subscription payment option, help to keep things private.

PrivateVPN’s download speeds can easily handle streaming, file sharing and online gaming. There are no data caps or bandwidth limitations from this VPN.

App support is limited to the 4 most popular platforms (Android, iOS, macOS and Windows). The service can also be manually configured for Linux. No browser extensions are to be found, but router support is available.

Up to 6 devices can connect at once on a single account.

A non-searchable FAQ page, email support and sometimes-available live chat support are available.

“STEALTHY” VPN PROTECTION:PrivateVPN delivers access to geo-blocked content in locations where servers are available. The provider offers comprehensive connection protection. Privacy-minded users will appreciate the provider’s “Stealth VPN” feature. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

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Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Sydney

While online use in Sydney and the rest of Australia is basically an unfettered experience, the Australian government has made several restrictive moves in recent years. This means there are several factors that you need to consider before subscribing to a VPN service.

These are the features that I researched when considering which VPNs were best for use while living in or visiting Sydney:

• Connection Speed: The faster your internet connection, the more enjoyable your online activities. (There are some exceptions, like paying bills or doing your taxes.) The VPNs I include on my list all deliver above-average connection speeds.
• Server Network: A large global server network offers expanded access to geo-blocked content around the globe. Plus, when a provider has multiple servers in a single country, the chances that an individual server’s performance will take a hit from serving too many users at once are reduced, ensuring optimal performance.
• Value: You can figure out a VPN’s true value by comparing the VPN’s asking price to the features it offers. All VPNs on my list offer an excellent return on investment.
• Ease of Use: A quality VPN provider should offer easy-to-use apps for popular device platforms. The providers included on my list offer powerful, simple apps for popular device platforms.
• Security and Privacy: At a minimum, a quality VPN will protect its users’ connections with strong encryption, an automatic kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection. Anything extra is also appreciated. A strict no-logs policy is a must.
• Streaming: Streaming is arguably one of the most popular pastimes for VPN users. The VPNs I include on my list deliver reliable access to numerous streaming sites, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and others.

Check out more information about my VPN testing methodology.

Won’t a Free VPN Work in Sydney?

I am totally sure that you can find a free VPN provider that will work in Sydney. I am equally sure that your “free” VPN experience will not be an enjoyable one.

First, and most importantly, you put your privacy at risk if you use a “free” VPN. “Free” VPNs have hidden costs.

Even a “free” VPN needs to keep the lights on, so many of them track their users’ online travels. They then sell that valuable information to anyone with the money to spend. That can be advertisers, the government or anyone else that is willing to pay.

Some VPNs have been caught injecting unwanted advertisements and tracking cookies into their users’ browsing sessions. (And remember, those tracking cookies continue to track those users’ online travels, even when they’re not connected to the VPN’s servers.)

Free VPNs are also terribly inconvenient.

Some freebie VPNs may force you to cool your heels, waiting to get the green light to connect to a free VPN server.

Once you do get the okay to connect, the provider will automatically connect you to a server of the provider’s choice, or your choice of servers will be severely limited.

After you connect, you will almost assuredly see your connection speeds plunge precipitously. This is because most free VPNs throttle their free users’ connections to preserve most of their available bandwidth for paid users. Plus, daily or monthly data caps are usually a free VPN “feature.”

So, drink a few less energy drinks per month and spend your savings on a quality VPN provider. You’ll be glad that you did.

What Can I Do With A VPN?

A Virtual Private Network not only provides access to content in other countries, it also keeps your online activities away from the prying eyes of third parties.

When it comes to protection, a VPN encrypts your internet connection, creating a protective tunnel of sorts, hiding your online activities from nosy third parties like the government, hackers and your ISP.

ISPs track your online travels because they can sell that information, black hat hackers are looking to steal your personal and financial info, and the government is nosy because, well, they’re the government and that’s what they do.

A VPN’s encryption prevents any of these parties from having any access to your online activity data.

Encryption prevents your ISP from monitoring your online activities, preventing them from throttling or blocking your internet connection simply because you’re sharing files via P2P or streaming video from an “unapproved” source.

VPNs also protect you when you’re connected to an unprotected public Wi-Fi hotspot, like those found in coffee shops and other public areas. Hotspots are favorite hangouts for bad guys, as they can monitor you when you’re doing your banking or shopping online, paying bills or conducting other sensitive online activities.

A VPN also temporarily assigns a new IP address to your connected device, making it appear that you’re connecting from a different part of the globe. This “spoofs” your location, tricking online services into opening up access to geo-controlled content that is usually unavailable to users in your actual area.

Conclusion

Sydney citizens and visitors are strongly advised to take advantage of the benefits of a Virtual Private Network subscription.

My top VPN, NordVPN, provides well-protected, fast connections, a large global server network, reliable connections to content around the globe, and comprehensive online protection and multi-platform app support. 24/7 customer support is available.

For more information or to purchase a subscription, visit the NordVPN website.