5 Best Free VPNs for Australia: Safe and Reliable in 2025

Most free VPNs fail to work reliably with Australian services and platforms. They're either too slow for smooth browsing or streaming or get blocked entirely by local websites — and that’s if you’re even lucky enough to find one with Australian servers. Plus, with Australia's strict surveillance laws requiring VPNs to store user data, finding a trustworthy free service is challenging.

We tested over 40 free VPNs to find options that actually work in Australia. While these VPNs maintain your privacy with strong security features, they still have limitations like data caps, fewer server locations, and connection restrictions. Our tests revealed that premium VPNs perform significantly better for streaming and protecting your data.

ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for Australia. It has 7 fast server locations across Australia and uses military-grade encryption to protect you from surveillance. While not completely free, ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try all its features without risk and get a refund if you're not satisfied. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best Free VPNs for Australia in 2025

Best Free VPNs for Australia — Full Analysis (Updated 2025)

1. ExpressVPN — The Fastest Speeds We've Tested With 7 Australian Locations

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested March 2025

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN delivers exceptional performance across its network. During our tests from Texas, we maintained speeds of 182.81 Mbps when testing its server in Sydney. That’s impressive, considering the two locations are over 8,500 miles apart. It was even faster when we tried servers in Europe and other countries closer to the testing location. These results were incomparable with most free VPN we tested.

I recommend using its proprietary Lightway protocol for the best speeds

The VPN’s features provide strong privacy protection in Australia. All servers run on RAM-only technology that wipes your data with every reboot. Its no-logs policy has been verified through independent audits by KPMG and Cure53. This level of security let me safely access my CommBank and ANZ banking apps without triggering any security alerts.

Its automatic obfuscation helps you browse safely on public WiFi networks. Some public networks restrict VPN traffic altogether, but when I tested ExpressVPN in a coffee shop, the VPN automatically disguised my traffic to look like a regular HTTPS connection. This prevented network admins from detecting VPN usage while protecting my sensitive data from potential hackers on unsecured networks.

While ExpressVPN isn't free, you can try it risk-free since it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. It also has a 7-day free trial, but that might not always be enough time to fully test the service. I tested the refund process myself through the 24/7 live chat. The support agent processed my refund request without questions, and I received the money back in my account within a few business days.

Useful Features

• Reliable streaming. ExpressVPN is one of the best streaming VPNs out there, and no free VPN comes close to it in this area. It works with all of the major platforms we tried it with, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Stan, 9Now, and more. Plus, its fast speeds support HD streaming from anywhere.
• Split tunneling. This feature lets you route specific apps through the VPN while others use your regular connection, optimizing speeds for local Australian services.
• MediaStreamer. You can use this smart DNS feature to stream content on devices that don't support VPNs, like gaming consoles or older smart TVs.
• Advanced Protection. This is a suite of adjustable features that can block ads, trackers, and malicious websites before they can load, protecting you from common cyber threats in Australia.
• Browser extensions. For convenience, ExpressVPN offers extensions that let you control the VPN directly from Chrome or Firefox while using Australian sites.

2. Proton VPN — Unlimited Data for Interruption-Free Security in Australia

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Proton VPN >

protonvpn.com

Proton VPN's free plan gives you unlimited data for continuous secure browsing. During our tests, we used over 50GB of data in a week without any throttling or service interruptions. When connected to its nearest server, our speed dropped by only 14%. That’s enough for HD streaming from anywhere. Our tests also revealed that it works with a couple of platforms, like Netflix and 9Now.

While there was some increased load time, it was only a few extra seconds

Proton VPN's security features protect you from Australia's surveillance. It routes your traffic through privacy-friendly countries before reaching your destination. I ran multiple DNS leak tests while connected to different servers, and Proton VPN never exposed my real location or DNS requests.

You get a choice of protocols to optimize your connection. The WireGuard protocol gave us the best speeds during testing, while OpenVPN provided stronger security for banking apps. You also get Stealth for restrictive networks. Plus, there's an on/off kill switch that stopped all internet traffic when I simulated connection drops, preventing any data leaks.

The only downside is that the free plan doesn't include Australian servers. However, Proton VPN's servers in Japan and the US maintained reliable speeds for daily browsing.

Useful Features

• Router support. The free plan only allows you to connect one device at a time. However, you can set it up on your router and simultaneously protect all your devices by connecting to one of the free servers. Not many free VPNs for Australia offer router connections, so this is great to have.
• Simple interface. Proton VPN's free app is clean and intuitive, with easy navigation and clear descriptions of each feature. This makes it effortless to use while you’re in Australia or anywhere else, even if you’re new to VPNs.
• Alternative routing. Automatically finds the fastest path to bypass firewalls and network restrictions on public WiFi.

3. Avira Phantom VPN — Mobile-Optimized Free VPN With Australian Servers

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome More

Try Avira Phantom VPN >

www.avira.com

Avira Phantom VPN's mobile apps boast an extensive server network. While the desktop version limits you to the nearest server, the Android and iOS apps give you access to 37 global locations, including servers in Australia. During our tests, connecting to a local server reduced our speed by 57%. So, it’s nowhere near as fast as ExpressVPN, but still good for browsing.

The "Nearest Location” feature automatically connects you to the fastest server nearby

The VPN optimizes its mobile apps for minimal battery drain. We ran a 4-hour streaming test on an iPhone, and Avira used 23% less battery compared to other free VPNs. The app also automatically reconnects when switching between WiFi and mobile data, preventing any accidental data exposure.

The Australian servers support P2P traffic and streaming. Admittedly, Avira Phantom’s speeds aren’t ideal for large downloads, but we could still download a 1.2 GB public domain movie in under 10 minutes. While it worked with a couple of platforms, like Netflix and Disney+, it didn’t work with Prime Video.

The main drawback is that you only get 500MB/month on the free plan. However, registering with your email doubles your data to 1GB, which gives you about 2 hours of secure streaming. This limitation actually helps prevent server congestion, maintaining consistent speeds for basic mobile security needs.

Useful Features

• Auto Connect. You can set Avira Phantom VPN to connect automatically when it detects an unsecured WiFi network. This will help you to protect your data if you’re on the go in Australia and need to use public WiFi to check your emails or e-banking account.
• Basic security features. The free plan includes IP/DNS leak protection and military-grade encryption to keep your data safe in Australia and abroad. Unfortunately, there’s no kill switch.

4. hide.me — Free VPN With Advanced Security Features to Keep You Safe

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try hide.me VPN >

www.hide.me

hide.me offers extensive security customization options to protect your data in Australia. You can choose between protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, to balance security and performance. hide.me also has an Automatic setting, which allows the VPN to select the best protocol based on your connection.

hide.me also has custom DNS, which is unusual for a completely free VPN

hide.me is based in the privacy-friendly country of Malaysia, and its strict no-logs policy has been verified by independent security auditors. It offers built-in IPv6 leak protection, which passed all my tests. The customizable kill switch lets you choose which apps automatically disconnect if your VPN connection drops. So you know your data is protected wherever you go in Australia.

While it lacks Australian servers, connecting to the US kept our speeds usable for general browsing. It’s also the slowest option on the list, with a hefty speed loss of 80%. So, it’s not the best option if you have a slow internet connection. It also doesn’t support P2P.

The main limitation, though, is that free users can only connect one device at a time. However, since no registration is required, you can install hide.me on multiple devices and use them separately. Just be aware that you have to reactivate your free account on a monthly basis.

Useful Features

• Live chat. hide.me offers live chat support, which is almost unheard of for free VPNs. You can get all your answers instantly if you encounter any problems with your connection, no matter which Australian time zone you’re in.

5. Hotspot Shield — User-Friendly Free VPN That's Great for Beginners

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Hotspot Shield >

www.hotspotshield.com

Hotspot Shield's straightforward interface makes VPN protection accessible to anyone. The app features a prominent Connect button and automatically selects the best server location, removing any guesswork for new users.

Use the Auto option to connect to the nearest free server to you

Its Hydra protocol balances security with performance for newer users. The speed loss of 51% is pretty good for a free VPN, but not ideal compared to ExpressVPN. However, it was better than hide.me. You also get WireGuard and IKEv2. I recommend the latter for mobile devices since it’s good at switching between data sources.

While it doesn't offer Australian servers, connecting to the nearby Singapore location maintained usable speeds in our Hotspot Shield tests. You also get US servers in New York and LA.

The main drawback is that the free version shows ads during connection. However, these only appear briefly and don't interrupt your browsing once you're online. I also appreciated that, unlike many free VPNs, Hotspot Shield gives you unlimited data to experiment with the service.

Useful Features

• Connection analytics. Clear visual indicators show your connection status, speed, and data usage right on the main screen.

Quick Comparison Table: Free Australia VPN Features

I've compared the essential features of these free VPNs, focusing on what matters most for users in Australia. The table below highlights key aspects like speeds, data limits, and server availability in Australia to help you make an informed choice.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Our Methodology for Testing Free VPNs for Australia

Our primary focus was testing each VPN's ability to provide secure connections within Australia's strict data privacy environment. We evaluated server performance with Australian streaming platforms, measuring speeds and connection stability throughout different times of the day. Each VPN underwent extensive testing of its security features as well.

For a detailed breakdown of how we evaluate VPNs, visit our methodology page. You'll find comprehensive information about our testing process and evaluation criteria. Feel free to use it as the basis for your own testing.

Expert Tip: Most Free VPNs for Australia Aren’t Safe

Free VPNs can be particularly risky in Australia due to the country's strict data retention laws. Many free VPNs lack the security features needed to protect your data from surveillance and monitoring. While the VPNs I've recommended above have been thoroughly tested for safety, many other free options put your privacy at risk.

Here are the main dangers of using untrusted free VPNs in Australia:

• Data collection and selling. Many free VPNs collect your browsing history, IP address, and location data to sell to third parties. For example, UFO VPN, a popular free service, leaked millions of user logs in 2020 despite claiming a "no-logs" policy.
• Weak security features. Some free VPNs like Cross VPN have been caught leaking users' real IP addresses through DNS leaks, exposing their online activities. This is especially concerning under Australia's mandatory data retention regime.
• Malware risks. Research has found dangerous malware in many free VPN apps. Betternet, for instance, was discovered to have 13 malware-positive hits in security scans.

The free VPNs I've listed above are different because they follow transparent privacy policies and maintain strong security standards. They're either "freemium" services supported by paid users or offer limited but secure free plans. While they have restrictions, they won't compromise your privacy or security.

FAQs on Free VPNs for Australia

Which free VPNs have servers in Australia?

The only 100% free VPN I recommend with Australian servers in its free version is Avira. The Australian connection is only guaranteed in the mobile app, though, since the desktop app automatically chooses the fastest server for you. While other VPNs like ExpressVPN offer multiple Australian locations, they require a paid subscription (although a money-back guarantee is available). Most free VPNs connect you to nearby servers in Asia-Pacific instead, which can still provide decent speeds.

Is using a free VPN legal in Australia?

Using a VPN is legal in Australia, though certain activities remain prohibited regardless of VPN use. The Australian government permits VPN services but requires them to follow local data retention laws. While it’s OK to use a VPN for privacy and security, it’s best to familiarize yourself with local law to ensure you’re not doing anything illegal online.

What's the best free Australia VPN extension for Chrome and browsers?

Proton VPN and hide.me offer the most reliable free protection via browser extensions. However, these extensions only encrypt browser traffic, leaving other apps exposed. For complete device protection, install the full desktop VPN app instead of relying solely on browser add-ons.

What's the best free Australian VPN for iPhone and Android?

Proton VPN offers the most reliable free mobile VPN experience with unlimited data. Though it lacks Australian servers, its mobile apps provide strong security and stable connections through nearby locations. Avira Phantom VPN is another solid choice, offering Australian servers specifically on mobile.

Can I watch Australian Netflix and TV with a free VPN?

Most free VPNs struggle to provide safe, HD access to Australian streaming platforms. Premium VPNs, like my top recommendation for Australia, tend to work more consistently for Australian content. However, a couple of the VPNs work with Netflix and a selection of other platforms — still, reliable HD access can be hit or miss. While some might work occasionally with ABC iview or 7plus, they typically lack the server capacity and IP refresh rates needed for smooth streaming.

Get the Best FREE VPN for Australia

Most free VPNs struggle with Australia's strict data retention laws. While I've identified several safe options in this list, they all have significant limitations. Data caps restrict streaming time, server networks are limited, and speeds often can't handle HD video or gaming from Australian locations.

ExpressVPN stands out as the best choice for Australia, with its network of 7 server locations in the country that maintain privacy. While not free, it offers consistently fast speeds for any online activity. Its 30-day money-back guarantee means you can get a full refund if you’re not completely satisfied.

Can’t find a suitable free VPN? Here are the best premium alternatives…

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Rank

Provider

Our Score

Discount

Visit Website

1

9.9 /10

9.9 Our Score

Save 61%!

Find Out More

2

9.7 /10

9.7 Our Score

Save 83%!

Find Out More

3

9.5 /10

9.5 Our Score

Save 82%!

Find Out More

4

9.4 /10

9.4 Our Score

Save 72%!

Find Out More

5

9.3 /10

9.3 Our Score

Save 86%!

Find Out More