How to Watch American Netflix in Australia – The 2024 Guide

The Netflix video streaming service offers thousands of movies and television shows in numerous countries around the world. However, the availability of particular films or shows can vary greatly from country to country. As an example, at the time of this writing, the service offers over 5,600 titles in the United States, but only 4,700+ in Australia. (Japan has the most titles, with over 6,000 currently available.)

What all of this means is that if you’re an American citizen visiting Australia, or a U.S. ex-pat living there, you may not have access to your favorite films and TV shows. While I assure you that Netflix doesn’t do this simply to be a jerk (the company’s content agreements with movie and television studios restrict where a film or show may be available), it can still be frustrating when you can’t watch your favorite shows.

Can a VPN Help Me Watch American Netflix From Australia?

However, there is a way to view your favorite U.S.-based Netflix content, even when you’re “down under.” A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can open access to Netflix content in other countries.

It does this by temporarily assigning a new IP address to your device, making it appear as if you are located inside the United States, while you’re actually in Sydney.

However, Netflix and other streaming services have all become adept at identifying VPN use among its viewers, and when a VPN server’s IP address is detected, the streamer usually quickly bans the IP address from accessing their service.

This means you need to find a VPN provider that’s willing and able to set up new servers and IP addresses when needed.

In this article, I’ll share info with you about six top VPNs that are willing to fight the good fight in order to provide you with reliable access to Netflix, no matter where you’re located.

While I’ll be focusing on each VPN’s ability to offer reliable Netflix access, I’ll also share information about the other features each provider offers. In addition, I’ll explain how those features make each provider a valuable addition to your online security and privacy arsenal.

How to Watch U.S. Netflix Using a VPN

Using a VPN to access Netflix content in the United States or other countries requires just a few simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a Netflix-capable VPN provider. (I use NordVPN.)
2. Install the provider’s VPN app(s) on your device(s).
3. Log into the VPN.
4. Select a server located in the United States.
5. Fire up your Netflix app and start binging!

What Is the Best VPN for Watching U.S. Netflix from Australia?

After extensive VPN testing and viewing of U.S. Netflix content (oh, the sacrifices I make for my readers!), I have found that the following six VPNs offer the best access to Netflix content intended for the United States.

In case you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick summary of the best VPNs for watching U.S. Netflix from Australia:

1. NordVPN: Best VPN for American Netflix. This top option for viewing U.S. Netflix content provides excellent access to U.S. Netflix content without breaking the bank. The provider delivers reliable access to Netflix while also offering excellent online privacy protection. Risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee included.
2. Surfshark: Best budget-price VPN. This budget-priced VPN provider delivers reliable access to Netflix Japan and other streaming services. It offers 4K-capable connections, offering optimal movie viewing enjoyment. It does all of this at a low price.
3. ExpressVPN: Comprehensive VPN protection and enhancement. This admittedly expensive VPN provider offers reliable connections that deliver blazing speeds capable of streaming even Netflix’s 4K content. The provider also offers complete protection for all of your other online activities.
4. CyberGhost: Easy-to-use VPN for rookies. This provider’s easy-to-use apps make it an attractive option for newbie VPN users looking for easy access to U.S. Netflix. The provider offers streaming-optimized servers that deliver reliable access to Netflix in the U.S. and other countries.
5. Private Internet Access: Reliable access to American Netflix. PIA provides reliable and well-protected access to American Netflix, along with other geo-controlled content around the globe.
6. PrivateVPN: Small but mighty VPN network. While it’s true that PrivateVPN’s server network could use some expansion, its U.S. servers provide excellent access to American Netflix content.

When ranking the best VPNs to use to watch Netflix content intended for the United States, I considered the following factors:

• Reliable ability to access Netflix and other streaming services in the U.S.
• Global server coverage includes U.S. servers
• Fast connection speeds
• Top-notch privacy and security protections
• Comprehensive native app support

For a more comprehensive look at the criteria I used, make sure you check out the methodology testing section later in this article.

Here is my list of the top six best VPNs for watching U.S. Netflix from inside Australia:

1. NordVPN

Apr 2024 unblocks Netflix USTested
Apr 2024

NordVPN snagged the top spot this time around due to its excellent U.S. server coverage and low-price protection offering.

The provider has close to 5,500 servers, which are spread among nearly 60 countries. Over 1,970 of those servers are based in 15 locations in the United States, offering optimal access to Netflix, Hulu, Paramount+, and other U.S. streaming services. NordVPN offers a helpful Netflix information page on their website.

NordVPN’s download speeds are some of the fastest around and they are more than up to smoothly streaming Netflix’s HD and 4K content. (Depending on your usual connection speeds.)

Their connections are well protected using military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak and IPv6 leak prevention. The provider’s apps can also block ads and malware, and offer access to Double VPN protection and obfuscated VPNs, which hide your VPN activity. The provider’s NordLynx connection protocol is based on the WireGuard protocol.

Privacy protections include a strict no-logs policy, as well as acceptance of cryptocurrency to pay for VPN subscriptions. The provider runs all server operations 100% from RAM, never writing any data to a physical hard drive. All data is wiped completely when the servers are rebooted or powered off. NordVPN’s owned-and-operated servers keep outside contractors well away from your personal info.

App support includes offerings for the iOS, Android, Android TV, macOS, Linux, and Windows platforms. (Native app support for M1/M2 Macs is now available.) Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are also available.

The provider’s router compatibility allows the protection of other connected devices. Up to six simultaneous connections can be made using the same set of login credentials.

BEST VPN FOR AMERICAN NETFLIX:NordVPN is the best provider on this list for viewing American Netflix from inside of Australia. The provider’s bargain pricing belies its excellent access to U.S. Netflix and its optimal online protection. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

unblocks Netflix USTested
Apr 2024

Surfshark offers reliable access to American Netflix at a low price. Its fast speeds and optimal security protections also helped it snag the number two spot on this list.

In addition to reliable access to Netflix America, the provider delivers access to Netflix streams originating from the U.K., Canada, France, Japan, and other countries.

The provider’s impressive global server network currently includes 3,200+ servers based in 95 countries, including the United States. The provider says it offers access to 30+ Netflix libraries around the globe.

Surfshark ranked number one in my most recent connection speed testing, and it can easily handle the demands of HD and 4K video streams. No daily or monthly data caps or bandwidth limitations to spoil the fun here.

The provider protects all connections with a kill switch and ad-blocking protections, and the provider’s MultiHop feature routes your connection through multiple servers to further hide your real IP address and location.

Your online privacy is also protected well by Surfshark, thanks to its strict no-logs policy. The provider also accepts Bitcoin to help protect your payment privacy.

Surfshark’s app support includes apps for iOS, Android, Android TV, Linux, macOS (with native Apple Silicon support), Windows, and Amazon Fire device platforms. Firefox, Edge, and Chrome browser extensions are available.

Router-based protection is also available. The provider also offers an unlimited simultaneous connections allowance.

The provider also offers antivirus protection, truly private search, and alerts when your personal information is exposed in a data breach. (Notice that I said “when,” not “if?”)

PERFECT FOR USERS ON A BUDGET:Surfshark offers an impressive global server network, good app support, and fast, well-protected access to American Netflix. It does this at a budget-friendly price. The provider’s unlimited simultaneous connections policy will come in handy for users with large families or businesses. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Surfshark.

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3. ExpressVPN

unblocks Netflix USTested
Apr 2024

ExpressVPN is an excellent option for accessing U.S. Netflix content and for protecting your online privacy while you’re visiting or living in the land of Oz.

ExpressVPN currently has 3,000+ servers, located in 94+ countries (and plenty of those servers are well-distributed throughout the United States). The provider’s servers offer reliable access to Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, ESPN+, Disney+, and many other U.S. streaming services.

This provider’s connection speeds are some of the best in the industry, delivering speeds that can handle the HD or 4K video streams that Netflix and other streaming providers offer. There are no daily or monthly data caps to spoil your viewing binges.

The provider’s apps offer government-level encryption, kill switch protection, and IPv6 and DNS leak protection. Split tunneling allows users to access their favorite U.S. Netflix action while still appearing to be in Australia for important stuff, like banking or trading stocks.

The provider also protects your privacy well thanks to a strict no-logs policy on all of their servers, as well as a willingness to accept Bitcoin in return for their considerable services. All ExpressVPN servers are run 100% only from RAM, never writing any type of data to a physical hard drive. Whenever a server is restarted, all data is completely wiped from it.

Native apps are available for the iOS, macOS (with native M1/M2 Mac support), Windows, Android, Amazon Fire, Chromebook, and Linux platforms. VPN browser extensions are available for the Chrome, Edge, and Firefox platforms.

If you prefer to do your Netflix viewing on a smart TV, game console, or set-top box, ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer DNS service has you covered. (However, MediaStreamer does not encrypt your connection like the provider’s VPN service does.)

RELIABLE ACCESS TO U.S. NETFLIX:ExpressVPN is a reliable choice for access to U.S. Netflix and for overall security and privacy protection on the internet. The provider delivers streaming-ready connection speeds and does an excellent job of protecting your privacy. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

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4. CyberGhost

unblocks Netflix USTested
Apr 2024

CyberGhost should prove to be an attractive choice for novice VPN users looking for a reliable, yet simple way to access U.S. Netflix content.

With 8,000+ servers located in 90+ countries (1,300+ of those are in the U.S.), CyberGhost provides excellent access to Netflix and other streaming services. The provider offers streaming-optimized servers to access Netflix, ESPN, Hulu, and numerous other streaming services in the U.S. and abroad.

The provider’s download speeds are some of the fastest in this gang of six and can easily handle Netflix HD and 4K streams.

Military-grade encryption, along with kill switch protection and IPv6 and DNS leak prevention, all work to protect your online activities from prying eyes. Plus, the provider can block ads and malicious websites, block online tracking, and even force websites to serve up secure versions of their pages, if available.

The provider’s privacy protections are also top-quality, as it follows a strict no-logs policy and offers a Bitcoin subscription payment option.

Native app support includes easy-to-use apps for Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Linux, Amazon Fire, and Windows devices. Browser extensions are available for the Chrome and Firefox platforms.

The provider can also work with your router to protect all of your connected devices. You can connect up to seven devices simultaneously using the same set of user credentials.

The provider also offers additional services, including a password manager, a Windows Security Suite, and a service that will notify you if and when your email shows up in a data breach.

EASY-TO-USE OPTION FOR NOVICES:CyberGhost is the best option on this list for first-time VPN users who need reliable access to Netflix content in the U.S. The provider’s app delivers reliable connections, without requiring complicated configuration. A 45-day, no-risk money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of CyberGhost.

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5. Private Internet Access

unblocks Netflix USTested
Apr 2024

Private Internet Access (PIA) has a nicely-sized global server network (3,300+ servers stationed in nearly 85 countries), providing reliable access to Netflix and various other streaming services around the globe.

Native app support for the Android, Android TV, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux device platforms are present and accounted for. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser extensions are also available, as is compatibility with numerous router platforms.

Up to 10 devices can be simultaneously connected to PIA servers on a single set of login credentials.

PIA’s connection speeds are certainly not the best on this list. However, the provider’s connections are easily up to handling most popular online activities, including streaming video. No data caps or bandwidth throttling ever inflicted here.

All PIA-provided connections are protected by banking-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention, and a kill switch. Blocking of ads, trackers, malware, and dangerous websites is also available.

There are no user logs to be found on PIA servers, meaning your online antics are kept private. The provider also accepts Bitcoin as payment, protecting your payment privacy. (By using a disposable email address to subscribe when paying with Bitcoin you’ll score an additional layer of anonymity.)

RELIABLE ACCESS TO NETFLIX:The Private Internet Access server network delivers fast, well-protected access to Netflix in many regions of the globe. The provider offers comprehensive online security and privacy. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Private Internet Access.

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6. PrivateVPN

unblocks Netflix USTested
Apr 2024

PrivateVPN’s speedy connections and reliable access to Netflix and other U.S.-based streaming services earned the VPN a spot on my list.

While the provider’s global server count of 200+ servers in over 60 countries is admittedly thin coverage, its U.S. servers do a workman-like job of accessing Netflix and other streaming services based in the country.

PrivateVPN’s download speeds are admirable, providing plenty of bandwidth, and are able to handle even 4K content streams. The provider never imposes data caps on their users.

The provider uses bank-grade encryption to protect users’ connections, along with DNS leak and IPv6 leak protection. Plus, the VPN offers a “Stealth VPN” option that helps hide your VPN activities.

A strict no-logs policy and a Bitcoin payment option both add to the provider’s excellent privacy protections.

Although the provider offers apps for only four device platforms (iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows), browser extensions don’t make an appearance.

However, the provider’s router features are available to protect the rest of your connected devices. Up to six devices can simultaneously connect to the service using the same login credentials.

GREAT FOR SPEED:PrivateVPN provides fast connections and reliable access to Netflix in the U.S. and other countries. The provider’s server network is spread a bit thin but offers reliable access to blocked content. The service’s “Stealth VPN” option hides your VPN activity as normal browser traffic. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

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Methodology for Assessing VPNs to Watch American Netflix From Australia

If American Netflix keeps turning you away when you attempt to view American content from Australia or other areas of the world. Below, you’ll find the important features to consider when deciding on a VPN for watching American Netflix:

• Streaming: Streaming fans should look for VPNs that reliably provide access to popular video streaming providers, including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more.
• Connection speed: Fast connections are a must when you’re streaming. HD and 4K video streams require fast connections, which all of the VPNs on my list offer.
• Server network: Netflix is available in most locations around the world, so you’ll benefit from a VPN with a large server network. Also, it’s a definite bonus if VPNs have more than one server in the countries it serves, helping to prevent an individual server from being overloaded with too many users at once.
• Value: VPNs should offer a good value for the money, while also offering at least a 30-day money-back guarantee.
• Ease of use: A VPN app should be easy to use, making it easy to quickly stream your favorite shows and movies. The VPNs on my list also support multiple devices, providing excellent flexibility for users.
• Security and privacy: Online security and privacy protection is an important consideration, no matter what your favorite online pastime may be. A VPN should protect your internet connection with banking-level encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection. Bonus points are scored for any additional protections a VPN provider offers. The VPNs I put on my lists offer all of the above, while also saving no user logs recording your online activities.

This is a lengthy list, but it doesn’t end here. This is just a small part of my comprehensive VPN testing methodology. This data-driven approach provides a better understanding of each VPN, allowing me to recommend only those VPNs that are a good fit for your needs.

Can I Use a Free VPN to Watch Netflix?

Using a free VPN to gain access to Netflix is like trying to fly by jumping off of a tall building while you flap your arms. You can try, but I don’t think you’re going to be happy with the results.

When you connect to a free VPN, there’s a good chance that you’ll either be faced with a small number of servers to connect to or that you’ll simply be automatically connected to a server of the VPN provider’s choice. This narrows the chances that the server you connect to will provide access to Netflix.

Plus, many freebie VPNs throttle their users’ connections, and many, nay most, impose bandwidth limitations, or daily or monthly data caps on their users’ connection usage.

In addition, you’ll be running the risk of having your privacy violated if you use a free VPN. (So much for the “Private” part of “Virtual Private Network,” eh?)

Many “free” VPN providers monitor and record their users’ online travels, then sell that information to the highest bidder. Other providers have been found to be inserting unwanted ads and tracking cookies into their users’ browsing sessions.

A “free” VPN just doesn’t seem to be all that free when you consider all of the shortcomings, now does it? Why not take a look at my list of cheap VPNs to use instead?

How Does a VPN Open Access to Netflix?

As I mentioned previously, a VPN temporarily assigns your connected device a new IP address. An IP address acts like your home’s street address, identifying it so the rest of the internet can recognize where information is coming from, and where information needs to be sent.

In addition to identifying your device on the internet, an IP address can also be used to identify a device’s geographical location. (Again, much like a street address does in the real world.)

By assigning your connected device a new IP address, a VPN enables you to access content that may normally be unavailable to users in your region.

So, if you connect to a VPN server in the U.S., Netflix sees you as a United States user, even though you may be in Melbourne. This means Netflix will allow you to access the content from their U.S.-only collection of films and shows.

What Else Can a VPN Do?

While we’ve been concentrating on how a VPN can grant access to Netflix in the U.S., I’d like to take a moment and share the other benefits a VPN can offer.

In addition to streaming content, a VPN is also an excellent way to open new gaming arenas and gain access to financial institutions that might normally be unavailable outside the U.S., as well as other online sites and services.

A VPN’s ability to hide your online activities from prying eyes also provides protection against your ISP throttling or blocking your connection, simply because you’re accessing “unapproved” materials or because you’re engaging in peer-to-peer file sharing activity.

A VPN’s encrypted connection protection also offers excellent protection against hackers when using an unprotected public WiFi hotspot. A VPN can provide additional protection for your online shopping, banking, or bill-paying activities.

American Netflix VPN FAQs

Conclusion

There’s plenty of content to be enjoyed on American Netflix, and a VPN makes it possible for you to continue to watch your favorite movies and TV shows, from Australia or anywhere else.

A VPN – like my top choice, NordVPN – opens access to blocked content and websites, helps protect your online activities from prying eyes, and prevents your ISP from throttling your connection simply because they don’t approve of your online activities.

For more information, visit the NordVPN website.