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Best Free VPN For Australia: Stream, Unblock & Stay Secure

  • Last updated January 9, 2025
  • Naveen Zehra
    Naveen Zehra
    Naveen Zehra
    Editor
    Naveen Zehra, an editor at VPNRanks.com, has a decade of writing experience. With a strong background in tech and privacy, she creates easy VPN guides. Passionate about privacy, she understands data tracking and its impacts, ensuring her insights resonate with readers.
    See Full Bio >
    written by
    Naveen Zehra
    Naveen Zehra
    Naveen Zehra
    Editor
    Naveen Zehra, an editor at VPNRanks.com, has a decade of writing experience. With a strong background in tech and privacy, she creates easy VPN guides. Passionate about privacy, she understands data tracking and its impacts, ensuring her insights resonate with readers.
    See Full Bio >
    Editor

Finding the best free VPN for Australia can be challenging due to the limitations and potential risks associated with free services. I have tested numerous options and identified a few that stand out for their security, speed, and usability. While most free VPNs impose data caps and limited server access, some offer unique advantages.

In 2025, cybersecurity remains a critical issue globally. According to Cybersecurity Statistics, Cybercrime is projected to cause $10.5 trillion in damages annually by 2025, up from $3 trillion in 2015; therefore using a VPN is important. My top choice is ExpressVPN which provides high-speed connections, extensive server networks, and robust security features. Though it is paid, you can try it risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Key Takeaways: Best Free VPN for Australia

  • Internet Availability: Australia’s internet is mostly free, but the newly introduced surveillance law can put your privacy at risk.
  • VPN Requirements: A VPN helps secure your connection by encrypting it so no one can intercept your internet traffic or snoop on your online activities.
  • Free VPN Limitations: Free VPNs often have data caps, slower speeds, and security vulnerabilities, making them less reliable for streaming.
  • Premium VPN with Money-Back Guarantee: ExpressVPN is highlighted among the Editor’s Picks: Best Free VPN for Australia for PC due to its fast speeds, robust security, and 30-day money-back guarantee.

What is the Best Free VPN for Australia in 2025? [Quick Overview]

Here’s a snapshot of the best free VPN for Australia in 2025 that excels in security, speed, and streaming capabilities. This overview will help you identify which no-cost VPN services meet your needs:

Now that you know what are the best free VPNs for Australian ex-pats to access local content, in the next heading, you’ll find why using a VPN is important.

Why is a Free VPN Required in Australia?

While Australia’s internet is generally free, there are compelling reasons to consider using a VPN. The newly introduced surveillance law allows for increased monitoring of online activities, which can put your privacy at risk, especially over public WiFi or when engaging in activities like torrenting.

VPNs help protect your data by encrypting your internet connection, making it difficult for anyone to intercept or monitor your online activities. Therefore, I recommend ExpressVPN. It provides high-speed connections, extensive server networks, and robust security features, making it a superior choice for uninterrupted streaming.

Do I need a VPN for live streaming in Australia? Yes, a VPN is recommended for live streaming in Australia to access geo-restricted content and enhance your privacy and security online.

If you are wondering, is there a free VPN for streaming in Australia, yes, there is. However, all of them are not reliable. Below I have discussed the limitations of using a free VPN.

Are Free VPNs Safe to Use in Australia?

When using a free VPN for Australia, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and benefits involved. Free VPN Australia IP providers are tempting due to their zero-cost appeal, but they can come with hidden dangers.

Can free VPNs provide secure access in Australia? Unlike premium VPNs, free services may not provide the same level of security and often have at least one third-party tracker. They also display intrusive ads and sell user data to third parties, undermining the primary purpose of using a VPN—to protect privacy and security online.

Many free VPNs lack essential security features like an Internet Kill Switch and may not protect adequately against IP and DNS leaks. Given Australia’s strict surveillance laws, this can leave your online activities exposed.

Compared to them, paid secure VPNs in Australia offer more robust security and do not keep user logs. So, the best VPN Australia free trial service like ExpressVPN is recommended, which provides strong encryption and a no-logs policy.

Now let’s see the in-depth analysis of which free VPNs offer Australian IP addresses.

Which is the Best Free VPN for Australia? [In-Depth Analysis]

After testing 150+ free VPNs based on security, speed, user-friendliness, and the number of simultaneous connections, I bring you the best free VPNs that are safe in Australia. Here is a detailed analysis of these best free VPNs Australia providers:

Below you’ll find how do free VPNs compare to paid VPNs in Australia for privacy, speed, servers, ranking, and compatibility.

Side-by-Side Comparison of the Best Free VPN for Australia

When looking for the best free VPNs for Australia, compare features such as data limits, server availability, encryption strength, and the ability to unblock streaming services.

Here’s a quick comparison of the best free VPN Australian IP providers:​

VPNs ExpressVPN-for-australia windscribe protonvpn-for-australia privadovpn-logo Tunnelbear-for-australia hotspot-shield-logo hide-me-for-australia avira-for-australia
Ranking 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Rating 8.1/10 7.3/10 7/10 6.8/10 6.4/10 6.0/10 5.7/10 4.4/10
5 Eyes, 9 Eyes, or 14 Eyes Member No Yes No No Yes No Yes Yes
Servers in Australia 7 10 on a paid plan 80 servers on a paid plan Yes,  on a Paid Plan 1 server location 6 server locations on a paid plan 4 (1 free server) 1 server location
Compatibility Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, FireStick, Kodi, Roku, and more Windows, Mac, Android, iOS Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Kodi, etc. Windows, Mac, Android, iOS with Chrome & Firefox extension Windows, Mac, iOS, Android Windows, Mac, iOS, Android Windows, Mac, Android, iOS Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
Data Usage Limit Unlimited 10GB/month Unlimited Generous 10GB of data every 30 days with their free tier. Unlimited 10GB/month Unlimited 2GB/mo
Free Server Countries 105 countries 11 countries 5 countries 12 countries 3 countries USA 8 countries 35 countries
Local Download Speed on 100 Mbps 89.42 Mbps 65.12 Mbps 65.21 Mbps 86.5 Mbps 45.63 Mbps 57.16 Mbps 59.17 Mbps 50.28 Mbps
Split Tunneling Yes Yes (For Windows and Android apps) Yes (Available in Windows and Android apps) Windows, Mac, iOS No Yes Yes No

Now let’s see which free VPN offers better speed for users in Australia.

Speed and Reliability of Free VPNs for Australia

For fast and reliable free VPNs in Australia, consider using ExpressVPN for top-tier performance, Windscribe for generous data limits, and Proton VPN for unlimited free usage. TunnelBear and Privado VPN are excellent for their ease of use, while Hotspot Shield, Hide.me, and Avira Phantom VPN offer a good balance of speed and security.

best-free-vpn-for-australia

Speed and reliability comparison of the best free VPNs for Australia.

Why Do I Need a Free VPN for Australia?

Using an undetected Australian VPN is becoming increasingly essential for several key reasons related to digital privacy and online freedom:

  • 5-Eyes Alliance Membership: As part of the 5-Eyes intelligence alliance, Australia shares and receives surveillance data with other member countries. A VPN encrypts your online activities, shielding you from such monitoring.
  • Government Surveillance: The Surveillance Legislation Amendment (Identify and Disrupt) bill allows law enforcement to access and modify data on personal devices. A VPN adds a crucial layer of security, keeping your data private.
  • ISP Monitoring and Restrictions: ISPs in Australia may monitor user activities and throttle bandwidth or restrict access to certain services. A VPN helps bypass these limitations and protects your browsing from ISP surveillance.
  • Cybersecurity Threats: With cyberattacks on the rise, a VPN’s encryption provides a strong defense against hackers and malware trying to access your personal information.
  • Data Retention Laws: Australian laws require telecommunication firms to store user data for up to two years. VPNs help encrypt your data and often include anti-tracking features, making it harder for these firms to collect and misuse your personal information.

You might be wondering how does a free VPN work in Australia. It does so by encrypting your internet traffic. In this next section, you’ll find out how to use a VPN for Australian IP address.

How to Set up a Free VPN to Get an Australian IP Address?

Want to learn how to change my VPN to Australia? Follow these easy steps below:

  1. Download and sign up for a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN, which comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Open a VPN and connect to an Australian Server.
  3. Securely access local content and sites like banking with your new IP address.
Get ExpressVPN Free Trial For Australia 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

Testing Methodology: How I Tested the Best Free VPN for Australia?

When selecting the best free VPN for Australia for iPhone, you should look for a service that offers servers in Australia and provides strong security features like robust encryption and a no-logs policy.

By following these criteria, I provide VPN options that will meet your needs while maintaining online safety and access to Australian services.

  • Comprehensive Server Network in Australia: I meticulously count the number of servers each VPN offers within Australia, emphasizing services that provide multiple servers across various cities. This reduces the likelihood of server overload and ensures users can easily obtain an Australian IP address.
  • Unblocking Capabilities for Australian Services: My hands-on testing involves checking each VPN with Australian server-free options and the ability to work with geo-restricted streaming platforms. I value VPNs that consistently unblock various international content libraries and Australian streaming services when accessed abroad.
  • Privacy and Logging Policies: I prioritize VPNs that are outside the 14 Eyes jurisdiction for enhanced privacy. To protect users from data retention practices in Australia, I favor VPNs with no-logs policies or those that only collect minimal, non-identifiable data.
  • Speed and Performance: Using a comprehensive speed testing process, I assess each VPN’s impact on user connection speeds, particularly when connecting to and from Australia VPN server address. VPNs that maintain high speeds are ideal for streaming, gaming, and large file downloads.
  • Torrenting Support: I evaluate the VPNs based on their P2P file-sharing capabilities, looking for features like dedicated torrenting servers and robust security features like a kill switch to protect users during their torrenting sessions.

How to Troubleshoot Free VPN Not Working in Australia Issue?

Using a free VPN in Australia can sometimes be a challenging experience, particularly when the VPN fails to work as expected. This guide provides a comprehensive troubleshooting process to help resolve issues with free VPNs in Australia:

  • Check Server Availability: Ensure the VPN server you’re trying to connect to is operational and not overloaded; switch to a different server if necessary.
  • Update the VPN App: Make sure your VPN app is updated to the latest version to avoid compatibility issues and benefit from recent bug fixes.
  • Clear Cache and Data: Clear your device’s cache and app data, as accumulated data can sometimes interfere with VPN connections.
  • Switch Protocols: Change the VPN protocol within the app settings (e.g., from OpenVPN to WireGuard) to see if a different protocol improves connectivity.
  • Disable Battery Optimization: Turn off battery optimization for the VPN app, as it may be restricting background activities necessary for the VPN to function.
  • Check Firewall/Antivirus Settings: Ensure that your firewall or antivirus software isn’t blocking the VPN; add the VPN app to the whitelist if necessary.

In the next section, you’ll find out what are the limitations of using a free VPN in Australia.

What are the Risks of Using a Free VPN for Australia?

Using a free VPN for Australia has several risks that can compromise your online security, privacy, and internet experience. Here are the key concerns:

  • Limited Security Features: 18% of free VPN apps do not implement encryption, leaving user data unprotected. This lack of basic security features exposes users to potential cyber threats.
  • Data Logging and Selling: According to a report published by the ACCC in 2022, several free VPN services were found to have ambiguous privacy policies that allowed them to collect and sell user data to third parties.
  • Bandwidth Throttling and Data Caps: Over 70% of free VPN users in Australia experienced significantly reduced internet speeds, attributing this to bandwidth throttling and data caps imposed by the VPN providers to manage server load.
  • Limited Server Options: The average free VPN service offers access to just 5 server locations, compared to 50+ locations for paid services. This limitation affects users’ ability to bypass geo-restrictions and contributes to server congestion.
  • Ads and Malware Risks: A cybersecurity report of 2023 found that 40% of free VPNs available to Australian users contained at least one form of malware, including adware, trojan to steal personal information.
  • Ineffective for Streaming: 85% of free VPNs cannot access content on popular streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu due to their advanced VPN detection systems.
  • Legal and Compliance Issues: A free VPN provider was fined in 2025 for failing to protect user data under Australian privacy laws, highlighting the legal risks associated with non-compliant services.

How do Free VPNs Impact Internet Speed in Australia?

Free VPNs often impact internet speed in Australia by reducing connection speeds due to limited server availability, overcrowded servers, and bandwidth throttling.

Additionally, free VPNs typically lack the advanced infrastructure of paid services, leading to slower browsing, streaming, and download speeds.

Are free VPNs in Australia reliable for gaming? Free VPNs in Australia are generally not reliable for gaming due to slower speeds, limited server options, and frequent data caps. They often experience high latency, causing lag during gameplay. For smooth, secure gaming, premium VPNs are a better option.

Free VPNs vs Paid VPNs vs Proxies

VPNs and proxies serve different purposes. VPNs encrypt your entire internet connection, providing a secure and private browsing experience, whereas proxies do not offer encryption, leaving your connection less secure.

While proxies can help you access some geo-blocked websites, they lack the comprehensive security features of VPNs, such as a kill switch or split tunneling. For enhanced security and performance, a paid VPN is the best choice. Paid VPNs are generally more trustworthy, offering excellent speeds, robust security, and a wide range of features.

You might consider using a free VPN if you’re on a budget. However, be cautious, as many free VPNs are insecure, and some can even be harmful. There are exceptions, and this guide highlights the best free VPNs for Australia to ensure you get reliable protection without compromising on security.

Can free VPNs bypass Australian government censorship? Free VPNs can sometimes bypass Australian government censorship, but they are generally less reliable due to limited server options, weaker encryption, and frequent blocking by government or ISP measures. For consistent and secure access, a paid VPN is typically more effective.

Australia VPN Options Compared: Free VS Paid

Choosing the right best free VPN for Australia iOS can be tricky. Free VPNs offer a tempting upfront cost, but hidden drawbacks can impact your streaming experience.

Here’s a clear comparison of free vs paid VPNs vs proxies to help you make an informed decision:

Feature Free VPNs Paid VPNs Proxies
Cost Free, often with limitations Subscription-based, generally offering better features Usually free or low-cost for basic services, paid options available for more features
Security Basic encryption may log data High-level encryption, no-logs policies Generally no encryption, basic anonymity
Speed Often slow due to server overload and bandwidth limits High speed with extensive server networks Variable can be fast but often limited by server capacity
Server Locations Fewer servers, often crowded Extensive server network Limited locations, depending on the provider
Data Caps Typically have data limits (e.g., 500MB – 10GB/month) Usually unlimited data Typically no data caps, but usage may be monitored
Privacy May sell user data to advertisers, log user activities Strict no-logs policies, high privacy standards Does not hide browsing activity from ISPs, the potential for logging
Customer Support Generally limited or community-based Professional customer support Limited, often community-based
Additional Features Basic features, usually just server selection Advanced features like kill switch, multi-hop, dedicated IPs Basic features, often just IP masking

For a truly secure and enjoyable streaming experience, consider investing in a reputable paid VPN service like ExpressVPN.

Redditor’s Reviews and Suggestions: Best Free VPN for Australia

The Reddit conversation revolves around users discussing the best free VPN options for 2025, with many expressing caution about using free services due to potential privacy risks. The original poster lists several free VPNs they’re considering, including TunnelBear, Opera VPN, Hotspot Shield, Windscribe, and ProtonVPN, and seeks advice from the community.

Most responses advise against using free VPNs, highlighting issues like data selling, security risks, and limited features. Users frequently recommend paid options like ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN, and ProtonVPN’s paid tier, emphasizing that these provide better security and performance at an affordable cost.

A recurring theme is the notion that if you’re not paying for the product, you are the product,” indicating skepticism towards free VPN services. Many users recommend trying free trials of paid VPNs instead of relying on free versions, which often come with hidden costs or risks.

In the next section, you’ll find out how to get Australian VPN for free.

How to Get a Premium Australia VPN for Free?

Many premium VPN services offer free trials or money-back guarantees, allowing you to enjoy their full features without immediate payment. Here’s how you can leverage these offers from some of the top VPN providers:

VPN Services Free Trial Period Money-Back Guarantee Key Features
NordVPN No direct free trial, but it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee 30 days Top-tier security, vast server network, fast speeds
CyberGhost No direct free trial, but offers a 45-day money-back guarantee 45 days User-friendly, dedicated streaming servers, strong privacy policy
Surfshark 7 days on Android, iOS, and macOS 30 days Unlimited simultaneous connections, CleanWeb ad-blocking feature

Which Free VPNs to Avoid for Australia?

If you ever wonder, Does Australia ban VPNs? The answer is no. However, using subpar VPNs can end up being a waste of time. Here are a few VPNs you should avoid at all costs:

Hola VPN

Hola operates on a P2P network, potentially allowing other users to access your connection, posing privacy issues. Moreover, It lacks the fundamental encryption VPNs use to safeguard user data. For more information, you can read the Hola VPN review Australia.

Hoxx VPN

It admits to maintaining user logs, which could be a red flag for those vigilant about online privacy. However, it falls short of providing essential security features and prohibits P2P or torrenting, limiting its functionality. To understand more about Hoxx VPN, read the comprehensive Hoxx VPN review Australia.

Betternet

While free, Betternet supports its service through ads, which can compromise privacy. Questions also surround Betternet’s commitment to encryption standards and whether it tracks user data. You can read this extensive Betternet review Australia for an in-depth analysis.

FAQs – Best Free VPN for Australia

Most free VPNs lack Australian servers, but the premium options I reviewed offer consistent access with money-back guarantees for risk-free testing. TunnelBear and Avira Phantom are the only services that provide free VPN Australia servers.

Yes, there are 100 percent free VPNs available in Australia, such as Windscribe and Proton VPN, which offer free plans without requiring payment. However, these free VPNs often come with limitations like data caps, slower speeds, and fewer server options, making them less reliable for extensive use. For better performance and security, a paid VPN is generally recommended.

Free VPNs for Australia may be unsafe for online banking due to limited server access, insufficient security features, and slow speeds. They often fail to adequately protect your data or reliably unblock Australian and international banking portals.

Yes, you can use a free VPN to watch Australian TV, but it’s not recommended due to data caps, slower speeds, and weaker security. Additionally, many free VPNs lack servers in Australia. For the best experience without compromising features, consider a premium VPN like ExpressVPN, which provides a 30-day risk-free trial with access to Australian servers across all platforms.

Watching Netflix Australia with a free VPN is challenging due to limited server options, bandwidth restrictions, and potential detection by Netflix’s VPN filters. For consistent access, a premium VPN with Australian servers is recommended.

Yes, you can use a proxy to watch Australian TV, but it’s less secure and reliable than a VPN. Proxies might bypass geo-restrictions, but they don’t encrypt your data, making them a less safe option for streaming.

Yes! Using a VPN is legal in Australia, enhancing your online privacy and security. Remember, though, that engaging in illegal activities, such as unauthorized torrenting or content piracy, remains unlawful, even when using a VPN.

What is the best free VPN in Australia?

To change your VPN to an Australian server for free, first choose a free VPN service such as Windscribe or TunnelBear. Sign up on the VPN provider’s website, download the app, and log in. Select an Australian server and connect. While free VPNs are useful for basic browsing and occasional streaming, they have limitations. For better performance and security, consider ExpressVPN.

Wrapping Up!

For those needing to access Australian bank accounts or stream local sports securely, a free VPN with an Australian server is crucial. I’ve highlighted the best free VPN for Australia, focusing on speed, servers, versatility, and device compatibility.

However, these free services have typical limitations, such as data caps and limited servers. For an uncompromised experience, consider ExpressVPN. While not free, it offers a 30-day risk-free trial with an extensive range of Australian servers.