Best VPNs to unblock Stan outside Australia in 2023

A VPN is the best way to watch Australian platforms like Stan from abroad. Here’s a rundown of the best VPNs to watch Stan online from anywhere in the world. 

Anyone attempting to access Stan from abroad will encounter the following error message:

“Sorry we couldn’t log you in. Stan is not available in your region. If you are inside Australia but using a VPN, please turn your VPN off and try again.”

As with most streaming platforms, Stan is subject to geo-restrictions, meaning it can only be accessed by users in Australia. However, a VPN is a simple solution which ensures you’ll be able to bypass any blocks no matter your current location. 

VPNs encrypt all user traffic, routing it through a VPN server in a location of your choosing. If you select an Australian VPN server, you’ll be assigned a temporary Australian IP address in the process. This can be used to seamlessly bypass any Aussie geo-restrictions, whether it’s Stan, Netflix, or another online service. 

If you don’t have time to read through the detailed reviews below, here’s a quick roundup listing what to expect from the best VPNs for Stan. 

The best VPNs to watch Stan from abroad:

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for watching Stan from abroad. Hundreds of Australian servers that are perfect for streaming Stan while you're traveling. Unique features like Meshnet, dedicated IPs, reliable speeds, and audited apps and infrastructure. Offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. 
2. Surfshark: Our top budget VPN for watching Stan from abroad. Decent speeds, unlimited device connections, Smart DNS, and servers in 100+ countries, including Australia. Secure encryption and a strict no-logs policy. 
3. ExpressVPN: Server locations in six Australian cities, and works well with platforms like Stan, Netflix, and 7plus. Smart DNS, beginner-friendly apps for all devices, and Lightway protocol. 
4. CyberGhost: Performant provider that is able to access streaming platforms in a long list of locations. Affordable deals and a massive network of servers to pick from. 
5. Proton VPN: Free locations in three countries, advanced features such as port forwarding, streaming support, and fast speeds. Apps for all devices.  
6. IPVanish: Speedy servers, streaming access, no device limits, and a strict no-logs policy.
7. Atlas VPN: Affordable subscriptions, unlimited device connections, and streaming support in Australia and elsewhere. 

Summary Table

If you’re in need of a VPN for Stan, it can be difficult to identify the best provider for the job. Some VPNs only work with a few Australian streaming services, and others won’t be able to access any platforms whatsoever.

We’ve narrowed the field with our inclusion criteria. Here are some of the non-negotiable characteristics we looked for when picking out the best providers for Stan:

• Servers in Australia are necessary for watching TV from the region while abroad, whether it’s via Stan or another platform. 
• Connection speeds will dictate how efficiently the user is able to perform any online task, and are especially important for streaming content. 
• As well as allowing the user to bypass Stan restrictions, the provider should work with other Australian sites and services from abroad. 
• Privacy and security, including everything from notable features to available protocols.
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN must operate a 100% diskless server network.
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN provider must have had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third party.

For more information about the specific criteria we used for picking the best VPNs for Stan, check out the testing methodology section found later in this article. 

Best VPNs for Stan

Here’s a roundup with detailed information about each of the VPNs that have made it onto this list.

NordVPN has locations found in five Australian cities, as part of a network of 5,800+ servers in 60+ countries. Roughly 190 Australian servers are found in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and Adelaide. These can access various geo-restricted services with no impact to performance. 

It works with Stan, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video, as well as international platforms like Hulu and BBC iPlayer. 

Average speeds of roughly 200 Mbps are quick enough to stream UHD 4K content with Stan, easily exceeding the recommended minimum of 15 Mbps. Nord can be used for any intensive task, such as P2P file sharing or multiplayer gaming.

You’ll also be able to get a dedicated IP from Australia for an additional fee. This is a static IP that is assigned to the user, and it won’t be shared with anyone else. In any case, Nord comes with an audited no-logs policy for peace of mind. 

NordVPN has a selection of unique features, including a proprietary protocol (NordLynx), encrypted Smart DNS (SmartPlay), and the ability to create private, encrypted tunnels between trusted devices (Meshnet). 

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and Android TV. There’s further support for routers, along with browser support for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. 

Six simultaneous device connections isn’t especially generous, but it should be more than enough for the average user. 

THE BEST VPN FOR STAN: NordVPN is a worthwhile solution for streaming via Stan, or accessing any Australian service from abroad. Nearly 200 servers to pick from, capable performance, strong security, and unique features. Comes with a simple risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Surfshark is another great option for accessing Stan streams from abroad. It has roughly 40 servers dotted around Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Perth. In fact, Surfshark has servers in 100+ countries, so it’s perfect if you’d like to get an IP address from a region that doesn’t have much coverage elsewhere. 

Despite a lower price tag, it’s still quick enough for 4K streaming, averaging a respectable 188 Mbps during testing. Surfshark allows the user to connect an unlimited number of devices at the same time, so it’s a great option if you’d like to share with others. 

The basics are covered in the form of 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and a sturdy kill switch. Advanced features include support for rotating IPs, while NoBorders works well if you’re in a country that blocks VPN usage. CleanWeb provides ad, malware, and tracker blocking, and there’s split tunneling, obfuscation, and more. 

As well as Surfshark apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV/Fire Stick, there’s support for routers and Linux. 

THE BEST BUDGET VPN FOR STAN: Surfshark is our top recommendation for anyone who’d prefer a low-cost alternative to the likes of NordVPN. Fast speeds and Australian streaming access, unlimited simultaneous devices, CleanWeb, and more. 30-day money-back guarantee.

ExpressVPN can access Stan with ease via server locations in Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, Perth and Woolloomooloo. It works with various geo-restricted services, whether it’s Australian Netflix or international platforms like BBC iPlayer and Disney Plus. 

In fact, ExpressVPN is one of the best providers on the market in terms of streaming support, offering reliable access to platforms in Australia and elsewhere. Average speeds in excess of 175 Mbps are quick enough to avoid any potential performance issues. It comes with a custom protocol (Lightway) that has all of the key benefits seen with WireGuard. 

Extra features include Smart DNS, a kill switch, and split tunneling. Customer support is some of the best in class. You can get in contact 24/7 via live chat if you do have any queries. 

ExpressVPN has apps and support for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. You’ll also find router firmware, along with browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, and Vivaldi. 

RELIABLE STAN STREAMING: ExpressVPN users will be able to access Stan streams, and there are reliable servers to choose from in 94+ countries. It works with a variety of geo-restricted platforms. Comes with a custom protocol, beginner-friendly apps, and support for all devices. 30-day money-back guarantee.

CyberGhost has one of the largest networks on the market, with 9,200+ servers found in 94+ locations. Once again, there are Australian servers in multiple cities, so you can pick from Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane. With 200+ Australian servers to choose from, there’s no risk of congestion. 

It’s easy to stream content with CyberGhost thanks to optimized servers that can be used with platforms like 9Now, 10 Play, and Netflix Australia. Speeds average 296 Mbps. It’s capable of accessing UHD content with no lag. You’ll be able to torrent, but you’ll have to look elsewhere for port forwarding support. 

CyberGhost has 256-bit encryption, an always-on kill switch, Smart DNS, split tunneling, and an ad-blocker with anti-tracking and anti-malware. The provider keeps no logs of user data, and support staff are on hand 24/7 via live chat just in case you have a query.   

CyberGhost apps are available for Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, and Linux, and you’ll be able to connect with up to seven devices at the same time. CyberGhost has an extended 45-day money-back guarantee for longer subscriptions, giving the user more time to test it out properly. 

STREAMING-OPTIMIZED AUSTRALIAN SERVERS: CyberGhost should be on your radar if you plan to use a VPN for streaming Stan shows from abroad. Over 200 Australian servers, simple apps, and speedy connections. Extended 45-day money-back guarantee.

Proton VPN is one of the more accomplished providers on the market when it comes to accessing popular Australian streaming services such as Network 10, Channel 7, Channel 9, and ABC. It’s also compatible with Stan, via 80+ servers in five Australian cities (Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Brisbane).

Proton VPN is arguably best known for being a sister service to ProtonMail, and it has a watertight no-logs policy as a consequence. Features include everything from port forwarding to split tunneling, as well as average speeds in excess of 320 Mbps. 

The free Proton VPN tier makes servers available in the United States, Japan, and the Netherlands. However, these free server locations can’t be used for streaming, whether it’s Stan or Netflix Japan. 

Secure Core servers (MultiHop) will route your data via Switzerland before reaching Australia, so it’s ideal if you’d like to improve online privacy. You’ll find a selection of Proton VPN apps available for all major devices. 

ADVANCED STAN VPN: Proton VPN is adept at bypassing Australian streaming blocks, and features fast speeds, free server locations, and a watertight no-logs policy. Secure Core, port forwarding, and much more. 30-day money-back guarantee.

IPVanish has 70+ Australian servers to pick from, located in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Auckland in New Zealand. In total, there are over 2,200+ servers in 75+ locations worldwide.  

It is worth noting that we had to log in to Stan before turning on the VPN to gain access, but it still worked without much hassle. That’s no surprise, given average server speeds are in excess of 250 Mbps.  

IPVanish is missing out on a few key features seen elsewhere, including Smart DNS, MultiHop, and Tor over VPN. However, it does feature split tunneling, a SOCKS5 proxy, and obfuscation, and a seven-day free trial is available. 

Apps are available for macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and FireTV, and the VPN is also compatible with some router models. Best of all, there are no device limits to speak of, making IPVanish another great provider if you’d like to share with friends or family.  

SPEEDY AUSTRALIAN SERVERS FOR STAN: IPVanish is great for streaming Australian content via Stan from abroad. Speedy servers, no logs, and unlimited device connections. Strong security features and apps for all devices. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Atlas VPN is another viable solution for anyone hoping to access Stan from abroad. The provider entered the market in 2020, quickly establishing itself as an affordable alternative to some of the better-known VPNs mentioned above. 

The VPN has speedy servers (260 Mbps) in 49+ locations, including some found in Sydney. These can be used to watch ABC iView, Foxtel, SBS, Australian football, and more. There are no DNS leaks. It comes with a kill switch, MultiHop, and split tunneling. 

Advanced features include rotating IPs (SafeSwap), along with ad blocking, tracker blocking, and malware filtering (SafeBrowse). It works with an unlimited number of devices at the same time.

AtlasVPN’s free version gives access to server locations in Los Angeles and New York. There’s no free coverage in Australia, and free users are limited to 5 GB of data per month. 

Atlas VPN apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV.

AFFORDABLE STAN VPN: Atlas VPN is perfect if you’re in need of a no-frills provider for streaming Stan. Fast connections, features like SafeBrowse and SafeSwap, and unlimited devices. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for Stan  

Rather than picking out providers at random, we’ve compiled a comprehensive VPN testing methodology. We test and compare the best VPNs in the business. 

Only providers dedicated to digital privacy, with excellent usability and optimal performance, can make it onto our list. Below, you can see the criteria we used to pick the best VPNs for Stan.

• Servers: Servers in Australia are necessary if you’d like to access streaming services like Stan securely with a VPN. As well as Australian locations for streaming, we’ve factored in the strength of the entire network. This helps if you’d like to access services in other countries too.
• Speeds and performance: No matter what you plan to use a VPN for, connection speeds will have an impact on almost any online task. Of course, speeds are always important when streaming. 
• Privacy and security: How does the VPN perform in terms of security and privacy? We look at features, their implementation, and everything from leak protection to encryption and protocols. 
• Third-party audits: Trust is the foundation of the value that VPNs provide. You are essentially placing more faith in your VPN provider than you are in your ISP. Almost every provider says they are a ‘no logs' VPN. The only ways to test this claim are either through the courts or through audits. We will only consider providers for our top three positions if they have undergone infrastructure audits from a reputable third party. While this isn't foolproof, it's the closest the industry has to a verification process for logging policies.
• Diskless infrastructure: Again, this is a prerequisite to be considered for one of the top three positions on BleepingComputer. While the data stored on a VPN server should be minimal, it could, theoretically, be accessed if the servers were seized or hacked. Moving processes to RAM means that no information can be physically taken from servers and it is wiped on shutdown. It can also easily be wiped as a part of regular security procedures.

How to use a VPN to watch Stan 

It doesn’t take long to get started if you want to set up a provider to work with Australian TV platforms like Stan. We’ve put together a quick guide to take you through the necessary steps. 

Here’s how to set up a VPN to watch Stan:

1. Select a VPN provider that works with Stan. We’ve listed several recommendations above. 
2. Sign up with the provider, and make a note of your login details.
3. Download the relevant VPN app for your device.
4. Open the VPN app, and sign in. 
5. Connect to a server location in Australia.
6. Open the Stan website or app. You should now be able to watch your preferred content. 

That’s all it takes to get started, and you’ll be able to access a long list of blocked Australian sites and services while abroad. If you’re having trouble, try deleting your cookies to ensure that Stan doesn’t remember your real location. Alternatively, try another Australian VPN server, or get in contact with support staff for more help.

Stan VPN FAQs

Can I use a free VPN for Stan?

It’s going to be tough to find a free VPN that works with Stan. Many providers ignore Australia in favor of countries such as the US, and popular platforms like Netflix. Even if you do find a free VPN that works with Stan, it’s likely that performance will be an issue. Free providers are known to cap speed and bandwidth, so they’re not good options for streaming in the long-term. 

Privacy is also a concern. Free VPNs have been known to sell users’ personal data. Encryption could be non-existent, and there’s going to be an abundance of adverts. 

Will I be able to stream Stan in 4K using a VPN?

Yes, as long as the speeds provided by your ISP are quick enough to exceed the recommended minimum of 15 Mbps. We made a note of the average speeds for each of the VPNs we’ve discussed above.

Is it legal to use a VPN with Stan?

Yes, it’s entirely legal to use a VPN with Stan from most places, although there is a chance that doing so could go against its terms of service. Some countries have banned or blocked VPNs to some degree. For instance, VPN usage is frowned upon in Russia, China, and Iran. Make sure to find out the local laws before downloading a VPN to your device.

What to do if Stan blocks my VPN?

If Stan still isn’t working while you’re connected to a VPN, it’s likely that the temporary IP address you’re using has been blocked. If so, you’ll need to switch to a different server, and ensure you’ve cleared the cache and any cookies. If the VPN still doesn’t work, take advantage of the money-back guarantee, and switch to a different provider.

Does Stan block accounts if it detects a VPN?

Streaming services like Stan don’t tend to make a habit of banning user accounts. Instead, it’s easier to block the IP addresses used by VPNs, stopping users from gaining access while abroad. If you think that your VPN’s IP address has been blocked by Stan, the best method to sidestep any restrictions is to switch to a different server. You’ll be assigned a new temporary IP address in the process.