Foxtel Go has protocols in place that restrict access to the platform from outside the country. This can make it difficult for Australians traveling abroad who still want access to their favorite content like Aussie Rules Football or The Real Housewives of Melbourne. But not to worry, in this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step process of how to access Foxtel from anywhere in the world by using a VPN.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an excellent tool to maintain privacy and security online – it works by encrypting all the internet traffic to and from your device and tunneling it via a remote server. Users can choose from IP addresses spread across the world, thereby bypassing geographical restrictions. This allows you to access content from your home streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, or Australian TV while traveling abroad.

We get into details on the best VPNs for Foxtel below, but if you can’t stick around to read the whole piece, here’s a summary of our top picks for watching Foxtel abroad.

Best VPNs for watching Foxtel Go from overseas:

  • NordVPN Our top choice for Foxtel Go. Has a vast network of servers to choose from including ones in Australia. Great speeds for streaming. Premium features. Secure and private. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • Surfshark Best budget provider for Foxtel. A security-first VPN that unlocks Foxtel and similar services with ease. Offers decent speeds and a strict no-logs policy.
  • ExpressVPN Fast servers around the globe. Unlocks Foxtel and most other popular streaming sites from just about anywhere. Great security features.
  • CyberGhost Easy to use apps are great for beginners. Our testing revealed impressive streaming speeds.
  • IPVanish Works great with Foxtel. Good average speed but look elsewhere if you also want to unblock Netflix.
  • Private Internet Access Servers in around 80 countries including Australia. No bandwidth throttling.
  • Atlas VPN Speedy, secure, and capable of protecting multiple devices.

How to watch Foxtel overseas with a VPN

Never used a VPN before? Not to worry, getting set up is quick and easy. Just follow our step-by-step guide below.

There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

Here’s how to watch Foxtel Go overseas with a VPN:

  • Download and install a VPN that works with Foxtel Go. (We recommend NordVPN).
  • Open the VPN app and choose a server in Australia.
  • Connect to the VPN.
  • You should now have an Australian IP address (check here).
  • Now clear your cookies and your browser cache as these can store location information from previous sessions.
  • Open Foxtel Go and start streaming!

There’s also the option of accessing Foxtel Play – an internet television service that avoids all the wires and doesn’t require consumers to sign lengthy contracts. Since it’s a web-based platform, it’s possible to stream it directly from your laptop. Packages start at $25/month with a two-week free trial and the Foxtel Go app included.

Best VPNs for watching Foxtel Go overseas – at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for watching Foxtel Go overseas.

This section will discuss a few VPN services that should give you the same experience streaming Foxtel as you would enjoy in Australia. They’re judged on the following factors:

  • Average speed and reliability of service
  • Premium features
  • Servers in Australia
  • Apps for Android and iOS
  • Strong encryption parameters

Best VPNs for watching Foxtel Go abroad 

1. NordVPN

                    Jan 2023

Unblocks FoxtelTested Jan 2023

Apps Available:

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

Website: www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is our top choice. It has been in the game for over a decade, has a bunch of premium features, and ranks top on our list of the best VPNs for privacy and anonymity.

Servers are bifurcated by location or type – there’s the option of choosing one based on your explicit purpose, such as anti-DDoS, video streaming, double VPN, Tor over VPN, and dedicated IP. 190+ VPN servers are located in Australia with more optimized for P2P filesharing. Globally NordVPN offers 5,400+ servers in over 59 countries.

The company uses the OpenVPN protocol encrypted with 256-bit AES protection and 2,048-bit DH keys. DNS leak protection is included by default and users have the option of connecting to a DNS server.

NordVPN is incorporated in Panama so, from a legal perspective, it’s out of the reach of Western authorities. It accepts Bitcoin as payment, thereby adding an additional layer of privacy if users want. Nord has a strict no-logs policy in any case, which means there’s zero possibility of any incriminating data being traced back.

There are apps for both Android and iOS as well as desktop support for Windows and MacOS.

NordVPN speed test data

BEST VPN FOR WATCHING FOXTEL ABROAD:NordVPN is our top choice. Works well with Foxtel while abroad. Strong security features and allows up to 6 devices to be used simultaneously from one account. Includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros:

  • Operates 190+ servers in Australia
  • Fast enough for HD streaming and unblocks popular content
  • Strong encryption and a strict no logs policy make for top security and privacy
  • Apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux and Android
  • Connect up to 6 devices at once
  • Customer service are helpful and knowledgable and available 24/7

Cons:

  • Automatic server selection may not fit all use cases

Our score:

You can read our full review of NordVPN here.

2. Surfshark

unblocks foxtelTested Jan 2023

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website: www.Surfshark.com

Surfshark is a fast, reliable service with more than 3000 servers spread across 65+ countries including Australia. This VPN not only unlocks Foxtel abroad, it also allows you to watch platforms like Netflix Australia and 9Now, regardless of where you are in the world. What’s more, as Surfshark has no VPN connection limit, you can protect every device you own with a single account.

It takes your security seriously, too. In fact, with military-grade 256-bit encryption, protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, and a kill switch (present in every version), you never how to browse without protection, even for a second. Surfshark also blocks ads and scans for malware automatically. This VPN doesn’t log any information that could identify you but if you’re concerned about privacy, you can always sign up with a throwaway email address. Customer support is available 24/7 over live chat.

This VPN offers apps for Android, iOS, Linux, Windows, and Mac. It can be manually installed on select internet routers.

Surfshark speed test data

BEST BUDGET OPTION:Surfshark boasts high speeds, a low price, and exceptional unblocking ability, plus it has no connection limit. This alone makes it ideal for streaming Foxtel, but it also offers strong security features and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Fast enough for flawless streaming

  • Privacy-conscious provider

  • Strong on security

  • Connect as many devices as you like

  • Excellent unblocking capabilities

  • Better suited to beginners than power users

  • Some Australian servers are faster than others

Read our full Surfshark review

3. Express VPN

Unblocks FoxtelTested Jan 2023

Website: www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN is a particularly robust service that boasts an impressive commitment to safeguarding user privacy and security while maintaining blazing fast connection speeds.

It offers over a hundred servers in Australia with unlimited bandwidth. They’re part of more than 3,000 servers spread across the world offering connectivity from 94+ countries. It currently operates servers in several cities throughout Australia.

ExpressVPN doesn’t retain any user traffic logs except for metadata pertaining to the date (not time) of connection, choice of location, and total data used. All servers use the OpenVPN protocol encrypted with 256-bit AES-CBC as default. 4,096-bit DHE-RSA certificates are identified by SHA-512 hashing algorithm. HMAC authentication and perfect forward secrecy are also used – meaning unblocking geo-restricted content won’t be a problem.

The VPN company has apps for both iOS and Android including desktop support for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux (command-line). It’s possible to pay via Bitcoin and torrenting is allowed on all servers. Furthermore, the company is incorporated in the British Virgin Islands, which means it doesn’t fall under the purview of any mandatory data retention laws.

ExpressVPN uses DNS servers with DNS leak protection built-in. If your VPN connection drops randomly, then an internet kill switch will temporarily halt all traffic until it’s restored.

ExpressVPN speed test data

STREAM FOXTEL ANYWHERE:ExpressVPN is fast and reliable. Great at unblocking many major geo-restricted streaming services. Top privacy features and keeps no logs. Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Fast servers in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth

  • Superfast servers are great for streaming HD content

  • Solid security and privacy

  • Easy to use apps for Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, and Linux

  • Live chat customer support – 24/7

  • Doesn’t come cheap, use a coupon for discounts

  • Few advanced configuration options

Read our full review of ExpressVPN here.

4. CyberGhost

Website: www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost combines a neat user interface with a fast internet connection and reliable service. It’s a recommended option for beginners who don’t want anything fancy and would rather have a plug-and-play system that works all the time.

There are, however, some lingering concerns for privacy advocates. CyberGhost says it doesn’t store any user logs or data but it was recently acquired by an Israeli firm so the policy might be disrupted. We’ll keep you posted.

There are over 6000 servers spread across 88+ countries including over 200 in Australia so accessing Foxtel won’t be an issue.

Apps are available for both Android and iOS as well as desktop support for Windows and MacOS.

CyberGhost Pro uses 256-bit AES encryption on the OpenVPN protocol by default along with 2,048-bit RSA keys and MD5 HMAC authentication. These standards put it in the top-tier of VPN services.

CyberGhost speed test data

GOOD FOR NOVICES:CyberGhost provides access to lots of geo-restricted content including Foxtel. Its easy-to-use apps are ideal for beginners. Plans come with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

  • With over 200 servers throughout Australia, has no issues unblocking Foxtel

  • Testing revealed an impressive average speed for streaming

  • Low-cost option with beginner-friendly apps

  • Reliable and knowledgeable 24/7 live chat support

  • Power users may lament the lack of advanced configuration options

  • Doesn’t work in China

Here’s our full review of CyberGhost.

5. IPVanish

Website: www.IPVanish.com

IPVanish is considered to be a tier-1 VPN provider because it physically owns and operates all of its servers as opposed to other companies that either rent or use a combination of the two. This decision gives it full control over all the internet traffic tunneled through its servers and makes it much harder for nosy agencies like the NSA to detect user behavior.

IPVanish has a stated policy of not keeping any traffic logs except for when an account is registered for the first time. Servers perform well when subjected to speed tests and there are over 50 of them based in Australia.

Globally the company offers over 1,900 servers in over 75 countries, including more than 50 in Australia. They’re secured with 256-bit encryption on the OpenVPN protocol, SHA512 authentication, and a DHE-RSA 2,048 key exchange with perfect forward secrecy. Bitcoin is an acceptable form of payment.

IPVanish is based in the US, but their no-logs policy should allay concerns. There are apps for both Android and iOS with desktop support for Windows and MacOS also included.

IPVanish speed test data

SECURE EVERY DEVICE:IPVanish has a large network of servers and handles multiple connections well. Easy to use and preferred by users who need high standards of privacy. Good for Foxtel but can’t unblock as many other streaming services as some of its rivals. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Own and operate 50+ servers in Australia

  • Good unblocking capabilities and streams in HD speeds

  • Strong encryption and privacy protections

  • A standout favorite among Fire TV Stick and Kodi remote control users

  • Look elsewhere if you need to use apps in China

  • Struggles with larger streaming platforms

Here’s our in-depth review of IPVanish.

6. Private Internet Access

Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

Private Internet Access is an excellent choice for watching Foxtel Go from anywhere worldwide. It has servers in over 80 countries, including Australia, and its use of the WireGuard protocol means you’ll experience uninterrupted streaming of Foxtel Go in full HD quality.

If extra security is what you’re looking for, PIA provides AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, encryption customization based on your requirements, and DNS leak protection. Malware filtering is also included to steer your browsing away from dangerous websites.

Apps are available for iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and more, and a 10-simultaneous device limit lets you stream Foxtel GO on several devices at once. A 30-day money-back guarantee is included with all plans, allowing you to try the service before committing long-term.

Private Internet Access speed test data

ROBUST SECURITY:Private Internet Access includes several valuable tools to enhance your online privacy, including a kill switch and DNS leak protection. It has servers in over 80 countries and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Favored by Kodi users with Linux for dedicated app and support

  • Operates over 3,200 servers

  • Generous connection limit

  • Streaming speeds can be inconsistent

  • Unable to unblock some popular streaming sites

Read our user review of Private Internet Access.

7. Atlas VPN

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

Website: www.atlasvpn.com

Atlas VPN is a budget-conscious VPN choice for accessing Foxtel Go from abroad. It only has servers in around 30 countries at the time of writing, but since Australia is one of those countries, you’ll have no problem accessing Foxtel Go. Plus Atlas VPN uses WireGuard so you can expect some pretty impressive connection speeds.

An unlimited device limit lets you stream Foxtel Go and other services like Netflix, HBO Max, and Disney Plus across all your home devices. Apps are available for Windows, iOS, Android, and MacOS, so all of the family can watch their favorite shows on the size screen that suits them best.

Atlas VPN also offers torrenting support, and thanks to its operation from Panama and Nord Technologies ownership, you can be sure it stands by its no-logs policy. Plus you can try this VPN out with no long-term commitment thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Atlas VPN speed test data

UNLIMITED DEVICES:Atlas VPN lets you stream Foxtel Go from as many devices as you’d like. With servers in Australia, you’ll have no trouble streaming Foxtel Go from anywhere.

  • Full P2P support

  • Performs well with most streaming services

  • No connection limit

  • Small server infrastructure versus other providers

  • Customer support is underwhelming

Read our full Atlas VPN review.

Free VPN options

It’s possible to access VPNs for free. There are several options floating around the web and we can see why they might be appealing. But while these free services do work, you won’t get the same speed and stability that a paid VPN service offers.

A free VPN service still has to make money to pay for server space, engineers, and other maintenance costs so it’s not an internet charity by any means. It will monetize by intrusively tracking your browsing history, selling that data to third-party advertisers, as well as bombarding you with ads. That’s a terrible process and a stark reminder of the fact that typically when the product is free, you end up being the product.

In the past, some VPN services, most notably Israel-based Hola, have also used their critical mass to attack other sites. By subscribing to a free VPN option, it’s possible that your machine could be used as a pawn in a larger game.

How to watch the Foxtel Go app with a VPN

It’s possible to stream Foxtel on your Android or iOS smartphone using the companion app. You’ll need to be an existing subscriber – either to the home set-top box package or via Foxtel Play – to log in.

Once you have the authentication details, it’s as simple as connecting to a server in Australia using your VPN provider app. It’s recommended that you first restart your mobile device and disable the GPS option so that the process is seamless.

The official Foxtel Go app is also compatible with Apple TV, PlayStation 3 & 4, and Xbox One. These devices don’t support VPN apps by default, but it’s still possible to connect by leveraging the VPN on a physical or virtual router.

Check out this tutorial on setting up a VPN on a virtual router for both Windows and Mac devices.

Why should I use a VPN in Australia?

Australian telecommunication providers are required by law to track and store user data for up to two years. There are logs of everything, from your email and IP address, location, amount of data consumption, as well as who you’re speaking with via call, text message, and email.

Read our explainer on Australia’s data retention laws.

Using a VPN is also a recommended option for netizens in Australia. The country’s decision to block BitTorrent sites means there’s no other way to download torrents safely and securely other than to sign up for a VPN. We don’t condone downloading illegal content – so use torrent files only when you’re sure they’re not protected under copyright laws.

On the other hand, Foxtel Now is for people who don’t have cable TV. Instead, you can just pay a monthly fee and gain access to Foxtel channels, without having to have anything installed in your home. Plans start at $25 AUD per month, with additional channel packs driving the price up further. 

Interestingly, Foxtel Now doesn’t outright forbid its users from accessing the platform abroad using a VPN. Its terms and conditions page simply says you must have a billing address in Australia, as well as one internet-connected primary device in the country. In theory then, there’s nothing stopping Australian residents from using Foxtel Now while on vacation.

First, it might be that your speeds are too slow to keep up with all the data that’s being sent. To find out, you can run a speed test; users with download speeds of less than 5 Mbps will almost certainly experience buffering with HD video. You may notice improvements if you reduce the video quality or pause other data-intensive apps (P2P clients, for instance) in the meantime.

It’s also worth noting that every VPN reduces your speeds to some degree. You should expect to see around a 30% reduction, but if it’s any more than that, you might want to try using a server that’s closer to your actual location. Finally, you could try a server with a lower load since the more users on the same server, the slower their speeds will be.

To be clear, we’ve never heard of any major streaming service that bans subscribers for using a VPN to access services they pay for while traveling. It’s much more common to just see an error message, and that’s assuming the service even realizes you’re connected to a VPN, which isn’t guaranteed.