Watch SBS On Demand outside Australia

You’re miles away from Australia, and your plan to unwind with your favorite shows on SBS On Demand is crushed when a message flashes across your screen: “SBS On Demand content is only available to stream within Australia due to publishing rights.” The frustration sets in. We’ve been there and understand that nothing ruins your downtime quite like geographic restrictions from streaming services.

But here’s the good news: We’ve conducted exhaustive research and rigorous testing to deliver a rock-solid solution to this aggravating problem. Enter the Virtual Private Network (VPN). This isn’t just any tech jargon – it’s your passport to unfiltered, unrestricted streaming bliss.

Simply, a VPN reroutes your device’s internet traffic through its secure servers, effectively disguising your location by masking your IP address. But not all VPNs are created equal, especially when you’re trying to unblock geo-specific content like SBS On Demand while overseas. You’ll need a robust service with servers in Australia to give you that golden Australian IP address, unlocking your favorite shows from anywhere in the world.

In a time crunch? Don’t worry. Scroll down for our carefully curated list of the best VPNs for SBS On Demand outside of Australia:

  1. NordVPNThe best VPN for watching SBS On Demand. 250 servers in Australia for unblocking SBS On Demand. Excellent 24/7 live chat support. Security includes a strict no-logs policy and double VPN servers. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
    TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for SBS On Demand.
  2. SurfsharkServers in 5 Australian cities capable of unblocking SBS On Demand. Unlimited simultaneous connections. No-logs VPN with user-friendly apps and 24/7 support.
  3. ExpressVPN:  It’s fast, reliable, and also works with Netflix and Disney+. Offers beginner-friendly apps and strong security.
  4. CyberGhost: Vast network of more than 9,000 servers. Fast speeds for streaming SBS On Demand. Highly secure with encryption and a strict no-logs policy.
  5. IPVanishGood speeds for streaming SBS On Demand. Allows any number of simultaneous connections and offers 24/7 support. US-based VPN service with a no-logs policy.
  6. PrivateVPNHigh-speed VPN. Works with many streaming services, including SBS On Demand and Netflix. Easy-to-use desktop and mobile apps. Good live chat support.
  7. Atlas VPN: Fast servers in Australia. Unlimited connections per account. Extra security with MultiHop servers. No identifying logs and 24/7 live chat support.

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How to watch SBS On Demand (outside Australia) with a VPN

If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry! We’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of using a VPN to unblock SBS On Demand.

Here’s how to watch SBS On Demand online from anywhere:

  1. Sign up with a VPN that unblocks SBS On Demand. We recommend NordVPN. However, Surfshark and ExpressVPN are two reliable and secure alternatives.
  2. Download and install the VPN app or browser extension for your device (the device from which you want to watch SBS On Demand).
  3. Open the VPN app or browser extension and connect to a server in Australia. This will provide you with an Australian IP address for watching SBS On Demand abroad.
  4. Go to SBS On Demand and sign up for a free account if you don’t already have one. You’ll be asked to provide your name, email address, birth year, and gender.
  5. You should now be able to play videos on SBS. If you’re still encountering restrictions, try clearing your browser’s cookies then reloading the page.

The best VPNs for SBS On Demand – Our hands-on review

We’ve tested and compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for SBD On Demand.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkExpressVPNCyberGhostIPVanishPrivateVPN
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comExpressVPN.comCyberghost.comIPVanish.comPrivateVPN.com
SBS reliability123456
Streaming reliabilityExcellentExcellentExcellentGoodGoodGood
Streaming servicesSBS On Demand
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
YouTube
SBS On Demand
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
YouTube
SBS On Demand
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
YouTube
SBS On Demand
Netflix
Amazon Prime
SBS On Demand
Netflix
Amazon Prime
SBS On Demand
Netflix
Devices SupportedWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, LinuxWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TVWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, RoutersWindows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, AndroidWindows, MacOS, iOS, AndroidWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV
Avg Speed (Mbps)100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps39 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$3.09
Up to 69% off + 3 months FREE
$2.29
Save 85% on a 2 year Starter plan
$6.67
SAVE: 49% + 3 months free
$2.03
SAVE 84% on the 2 year plan
$2.75
SAVE 78% on the 2 yr plan
$2.00
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free

Best VPNs for watching SBS On Demand abroad

There are many different factors to consider when choosing a VPN. These include the speed of servers, the size of the network, and the level of security on offer. We researched the best VPNs for watching SBS On Demand based on the following criteria:

  • Servers in Australia that unblock SBS On Demand
  • Fast and reliable connections for uninterrupted streaming
  • Security features that serve to protect your online privacy
  • Customer support available via live chat and email
  • Beginner-friendly apps for desktop and mobile platforms
  • Option to connect multiple devices simultaneously

From real world experience, here’s our list of the best VPNs to watch SBS On Demand abroad, outside Australia:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Mar 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is our top recommendation for SBS On Demand. It offers over 190 Australian servers, which are located across five cities. This means you’ll easily find a fast server for streaming SBS On Demand, lag, and buffer-free. You can also securely access Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and more, thanks to the many US servers offered. Overall, NordVPN has over 5,500 high-speed servers in around 60+ countries. It lets you connect up to six devices simultaneously.

This VPN offers particularly helpful customer support, which you can contact 24/7 via live chat. Its apps are beginner-friendly and make it easy to connect to a server or adjust your various preferences. NordVPN is headquartered in Panama, where there are no mandatory data retention laws. Aside from a strict no-logs policy, it offers 256-bit AES encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch. You can even use servers optimized for extra privacy, such as Double VPN and Onion Over VPN.

If you choose NordVPN, you’ll have access to the apps for Linux, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Android TV. You’ll also find Chrome and Firefox browser extensions through routers require manual installation.

Pros:

  • Over 190 servers in Australia for watching SBS On Demand abroad
  • Works with Netflix, Hulu, and more
  • Great speeds for seamless streaming
  • Very good customer support available 24/7 via live chat
  • Variety of easy-to-use apps and browser extensions
  • Security features include no-logs policy and Double VPN servers

Cons:

  • Can’t select a server directly, only a location

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEST VPN FOR SBS ON DEMAND:NordVPN is our top choice to unblock SBS On Demand with almost 200 Australian servers. It also works with Netflix and Hulu. Lots of security features, including a no-logs policy and Double VPN servers for even greater privacy. Plans include a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Surfshark stands out from many of its rivals by letting you have an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. What’s more, it has servers in five Australian cities: Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney. This VPN’s growing network consists of just over 3,200 servers in 100 countries. Server speeds are good for streaming, while Surfshark is also excellent for streaming. Aside from SBS On Demand, it also works with the likes of Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu.

This VPN is very easy for beginners to use. The apps have a simple layout with servers divided by region and country as well as whether they are physical, virtual, optimized for P2P, or “MultiHop” (Double VPN). 24/7 live chat support is included, and your security is taken seriously. This is evidenced by Surfshark’s strict no-logs policy and use of 256-bit AES encryption. There’s also protection from DNS leaks, a kill switch, and a “CleanWeb” feature that blocks ads, trackers, and malware.

Surfshark offers apps for the following operating systems: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. There’s also an app for Amazon Fire TV and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. Manual configuration is required for use with routers.

Pros:

  • Connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously
  • Stream SBS On Demand, Stan, Netflix, and more
  • Extremely user-friendly apps and browser extensions
  • Strong all-round security, including an ad and malware blocker
  • No logs whatsoever

Cons:

  • Customer support could be refined

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BUDGET-FRIENDLY VPN:Surfshark offers easy-to-use apps and browser extensions. Servers in five Australian cities for SBS On Demand. Lets you connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. Strict no-logs VPN with live chat support, 24/7. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review.

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3. ExpressVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN is another great option for uninterrupted streaming of SBS online. This VPN has a network of over 3,000 servers which are spread across 94 countries. Additionally, ExpressVPN has long been one of the fastest VPNs on the market, offering unlimited bandwidth and allowing you to stream without lag or buffering. In fact, Aside from SBS On Demand, you’ll be able to securely access Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

You’re unlikely to have too many issues using ExpressVPN, thanks to the user-friendly design of its apps and browser extensions. However, 24/7 live chat support is on-hand should you need it. Security-wise, this VPN offers all of the essentials, including 256-bit AES encryption, DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection, and a kill switch. Furthermore, ExpressVPN doesn’t keep any identifying logs of its users, which means you can browse the web with complete peace of mind.

ExpressVPN offers apps for the following: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux. There’s also firmware for routers as well as browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.

Pros:

  • Very fast speeds for streaming SBS On Demand
  • Works with many streaming services, including Netflix and Disney+
  • Beginner-friendly apps and browser extensions
  • Fast and efficient customer support via live chat (available 24/7)
  • Highly secure service thanks to its use of encryption

Cons:

  • Pricier than the other VPNs on this list
  • Streaming servers aren’t labeled

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

GREAT FOR STREAMING:ExpressVPN has servers in 94 countries, including Australia. Very fast speeds for streaming SBS On Demand, Netflix, and Disney+. Offers 24/7 support and well-designed apps. Secure with encryption. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

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4. CyberGhost

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost offers 150 servers in Australia which are located in the cities of Melbourne and Sydney. This is one of the larger VPNs around, with a network consisting of more than 9,000 servers globally. As such, you can use it to unblock content around the world, including streaming services such as SBS On Demand and Stan. CyberGhost is very fast and doesn’t impose any limits on your bandwidth, making it ideal for streaming and torrenting.

With a single CyberGhost account, you can secure up to seven devices simultaneously. What’s more, there are several useful features, such as an ad-blocker and the option to force websites to use HTTPS. This is a no-logs VPN service that safeguards your privacy using 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS and IPv6 leak protection. CyberGhost also offers its own independently operated NoSpy servers for even greater online anonymity.

You can use CyberGhost via the apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, and Amazon Fire Stick. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available. Manual setup is required for use with routers.

Pros:

  • 150 servers in Australia for unblocking SBS On Demand
  • A huge network of more than 9,000 servers across 91 countries
  • Very fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth for streaming
  • Lets you secure up to seven devices at once
  • Very strong security with a strict no-logs policy

Cons:

  • Doesn’t work in China or the UAE
  • Not option for local networking

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEST BUDGET VPN:CyberGhost offers over 9,000 servers worldwide, 150 of which are in Australia. Very fast servers for streaming SBS On Demand. Lets you connect up to seven devices simultaneously. Highly secure VPN with a strict no-logs policy. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

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5. IPVanish

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.IPVanish.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

IPVanish lets you have as many simultaneous connections as you like and offers servers in dozens of countries worldwide, Australia included. This VPN provides unlimited bandwidth and states that it will never throttle your connection. This is particularly welcome news for anyone looking to stream SBS On Demand, although you’ll also be able to use platforms like Netflix US.

Another reason to consider IPVanish is that it offers 24/7 live chat support, allowing you to solve issues quickly and easily. The security offering is also impressive; this is one of the few VPNs that owns its servers rather than renting them, reducing the risk of third-party interference and data becoming compromised. Furthermore, IPVanish offers 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and protection against DNS leaks.

IPVanish apps can be downloaded for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. While there are no apps for Linux or routers, these can be configured manually.

Pros:

  • Good speeds and unlimited bandwidth for streaming
  • Works with SBS On Demand and Netflix US
  • No connection limit
  • Protects your privacy through its no-logs policy

Cons:

  • Doesn’t offer the option to pay in Bitcoin/cryptocurrency
  • No browser extensions available

Our score:

4 out of 5

NO CONNECTION LIMIT:IPVanish works with SBS On Demand and Netflix US. Unlimited bandwidth for stress-free streaming and torrenting. 24/7 support and strong security features, including a no-logs policy and encryption. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

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6. PrivateVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.PrivateVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

PrivateVPN has high-speed servers which are perfect for streaming as well as torrenting. Its Australian servers are located in Melbourne and Sydney. A network of servers across 63 countries means you can unblock websites and services from all around the world. When it comes to streaming services, PrivateVPN works well with SBS On Demand, HBO Max, and Disney+, all without the frustrations of buffering and lag.

This is a smaller VPN service that offers live chat support through which you can speak with the developers directly. The desktop and mobile apps keep things simple. As such, you can connect to a server or adjust your settings in seconds. It’s possible to secure all of your devices thanks to the fact that PrivateVPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections per account. In terms of protecting your privacy, PrivateVPN uses 256-bit AES encryption and a kill switch. You’re also protected from DNS leaks, while a no-logs policy ensures your data stays private.

Unblock SBS On Demand outside Australia via PrivateVPN’s apps for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Manual installation is required for use with Linux and routers.

Pros:

  • High-speed servers ideal for streaming SBS On Demand, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video and more
  • Connect up to 10 devices simultaneously
  • Protects you with encryption and a no-logs policy

Cons:

  • Only offers around 200 servers
  • Live chat support isn’t available 24/7

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

EXCELLENT AT UNBLOCKING:PrivateVPN unblocks many streaming services including SBS On Demand, Disney+, and HBO. Very fast speeds mean no buffering or lag. Beginner-friendly apps and encryption that protects your privacy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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7. Atlas VPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

Website:  www.AtlasVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Atlas VPN provides approximately 750 servers in nearly 50 locations. This includes servers in Australia, allowing you to access SBS On Demand from overseas. With locations also including the US and UK, you can also unblock and stream Netflix and BBC iPlayer, among other streaming services. Atlas VPN consistently makes our list of the fastest VPNs. You can use it to stream in 1080p without the annoyance of lag.

With just one Atlas VPN account, you can secure all of your devices (there’s an unlimited simultaneous connection allowance). This VPN offers 24-hour live chat and email support to its subscribers. Your streaming will be secured through Atlas VPN’s use of 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and its kill switch feature. There are plenty of extras too, such as its MultiHop servers. It operates a no-logs policy.

Connect to Atlas VPN servers via apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV. Unfortunately, there are no browser extensions, and it doesn’t support routers.

Pros:

  • Compatible with SBS on Demand, Netflix, and more
  • Very good speeds resulting in lag and buffer-free streaming
  • Extra security features such as MultiHop servers

Cons:

  • No support for routers
  • Smaller network of just 750 servers

Our score:

4 out of 5

PACKED WITH FEATURES:Atlas VPN lets you stream SBS On Demand from anywhere. It also works well with Netflix. Servers in dozens of locations. Good speeds and security, including MultiHop servers. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Atlas VPN review.

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Our Methodology: How we found the best VPNs for streaming SBS On Demand

Every VPN is different, which means that there are some that aren’t up to the task of streaming SBS abroad. In fact, there are plenty out there that can barely access any geo-blocked services. To make sure we only recommend the best VPNs for SBS, we looked for providers meeting all of the following criteria:

  • Australian servers: You’ll need an Australian IP address to unblock SBS, and the easiest way to get one is to use an Australian VPN. We’d like there to be quite a few to choose from since this improves reliability and lets you keep streaming even when some go down for maintenance.
  • High speeds: Connection speed has a huge impact on your streaming experience. We’ve performed hundreds of speed tests, allowing us to highlight only the fastest VPNs on the market right now.
  • Great streaming potential: Eventually, you might want to watch something different. That’s why we’ve prioritized VPNs that work with a variety of Australian services like Netflix, Stan, Kayo Sports, Disney+ and Foxtel Go.
  • Strong security: It’s important that you’re able to stream and browse without wondering if someone is monitoring your activities. That’s why all of our top VPNs include 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, IPv6 and DNS leak protection, and a no-logs policy.
  • Easy to use: We looked for providers that make their services as user-friendly as possible. Valuable features include 24/7 live chat, apps for all major operating systems, and servers that are specially optimized for streaming.

Interested in learning more? We have a detailed post that explains every step of our VPN testing process.

Watch SBS On Demand outside Australia: FAQs

Can I use a free VPN to watch SBS On Demand?

There are a couple of problems with using free VPNs for streaming. The first is that the average free VPN has only a small network of servers. This may make it difficult to find a server in the location required to access particular websites or services. Second, free VPNs attract a lot of users which makes for heavy server load. Free VPNs often throttle your bandwidth in an attempt to manage this, resulting in lag and buffering when streaming the likes of SBS On Demand, Netflix, and Disney+.

Aside from performance issues, free VPNs tend to be very light on features. You often won’t be able to connect multiple devices simultaneously while live chat support is also very rare. However, more critical omissions are in the area of security. Some free VPNs don’t encrypt your data or use a kill switch to protect you from data leaks. It’s also important to consider how a free VPN makes its money. You may find yourself bombarded with spam or, even worse, have your data logged and sold to third parties.

What can I watch on SBS On Demand?

SBS On Demand offers a variety of TV shows and movies as well as live streams of its various channels including SBS, Viceland, and SBS World Movies. You can also find coverage of select NBA games. Here’s a list of some of the TV shows you can watch on SBS On Demand:

  • Sorry For Your Loss
  • Dark Woods
  • Narcos
  • The X-Files
  • Letterkenny
  • Broadchurch
  • Taskmaster
  • Halt And Catch Fire
  • Borgen
  • Wellington Paranormal

Can I get SBS On Demand on my Firestick?

Yes, you can. SBS On Demand is available as an app for the Amazon Fire TV stick. Just search for “SBS On Demand” in the Amazon App Store and install it. Once it’s installed, open the app and log in with your SBS account details. That’s it – you’re ready to start streaming!

Is watching SBS with a VPN legal?

It is legal to watch SBS with a VPN, but it’s recommended to read the provider’s terms as there may be a condition regarding VPNs. While VPNs aren’t prohibited in most countries, check the laws in your country to check before connecting.