What’s better than spending your evening catching up on Downton Abbey or the latest Love Island drama? For UK TV fans in Australia, accessing ITV feels like reconnecting with home—or discovering some of the best shows Britain has to offer.
But there’s one pesky problem: geo-restrictions. Without a UK IP address, ITV’s content remains locked. It’s like being invited to the best party and then left standing outside. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution—using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
This guide will walk you through exactly how to unblock ITV in Australia in 2026 with ease, why a VPN is the best way to do it, and how to avoid common pitfalls.
Why Is ITV Blocked in Australia?
If you’ve ever tried to stream Red Eye or catch the latest crime drama on ITV while in Australia, you’ve probably hit a frustrating wall: “This content is not available in your region.” It’s not your internet acting up—it’s ITV’s geo-restrictions hard at work.
ITV’s content is blocked outside the UK due to licensing agreements and regional broadcasting rights. These agreements dictate where their shows and live broadcasts can be streamed, limiting access to UK viewers only.
This is where a VPN can make a difference. When you choose a UK server, ITV thinks you’re streaming from London instead of Sydney. Suddenly, that error message disappears, and you’re back in the world of gripping dramas, laugh-out-loud comedies, and iconic reality TV.
While there are free methods to attempt unblocking, they are often unreliable and come with risks, such as sluggish speeds or exposing your data. A trusted VPN like NordVPN allows you to watch ITVX from Australia, so you can focus on the entertainment.
How to Watch ITV in Australia in 2026
Follow these simple steps to start streaming ITV effortlessly in Australia. For this tutorial, we will use NordVPN, but note that the steps are almost identical even if you use ExpressVPN, Private Internet Access, or another VPN.
- Sign up and install the VPN: Visit NordVPN’s website, create an account, and download the app onto your preferred device (smartphone, tablet, laptop, or smart TV).
- Connect to a UK server: Open the VPN app and connect to a UK-based server. This gives you a UK IP address, bypassing geo-restrictions.
- Sign up for an ITV account: If you don’t already have one, register for free. Use any valid UK postcode during the sign-up process.
- Start streaming content: Log in to your ITV account and enjoy a seamless viewing experience, from live shows to on-demand dramas and comedies.
Pro Tip: For the best performance, choose a VPN server close to ITV’s main broadcasting hubs in the UK, such as London or Manchester. NordVPN’s optimized servers provide buffer-free streaming and high-quality playback.
Best VPNs to Watch ITV live in Australia
We’ve tested dozens of VPNs to see which ones work best with ITV.
From blazing-fast speeds to strong unblocking capabilities, these top picks allow you to watch ITV’s full lineup from anywhere in Australia. Here’s why NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and PIA are the best options in 2026.
1. NordVPN
If streaming ITV in Australia is your goal, NordVPN is your ideal companion. Its combination of blazing-fast speeds, effortless unblocking, and robust security makes it a top pick for uninterrupted access to UK content.
Reliable Streaming Servers for ITV
NordVPN boasts an impressive 6400+ servers worldwide, including 440+ servers in the UK.
With so many options, switching servers is easy if one becomes crowded or experiences issues. When connecting to its UK servers, we faced zero interruptions streaming ITVX content, from live events to on-demand shows.
Lightning-Fast Speeds with NordLynx
Speed is critical for streaming, and NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol delivers. In our tests, we experienced a minimal 10% drop from baseline internet speeds, and HD streams were buffer-free—even from the other side of the globe. Whether it’s a gripping episode of Broadchurch or live sports, NordVPN keeps playback smooth.
Effortless Unblocking for ITV and More
NordVPN made signing up and streaming on ITV a breeze. Its advanced unblocking technology worked seamlessly, bypassing ITVX’s geo-restrictions without a glitch. With NordVPN, you can also access other UK platforms like BBC iPlayer and Channel 4, giving you the full British TV experience from Australia.
On that note, NordVPN will also allow you to access other TV channels. For example, you’ll have no trouble watching the Super Bowl for free online, or following Formula 1 on a completely free channel.
User-Friendly and Multi-Device Support
NordVPN’s apps are designed for simplicity, making it easy for beginners to set up. The VPN supports up to 10 simultaneous connections, so you can enjoy ITV on your laptop, smartphone, tablet, or even smart TV.
Pricing and Refund Policy
NordVPN offers several subscription plans to suit different needs, with long-term plans priced at around $3 per month. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the service risk-free.
Pros
- Extensive network with 6400+ servers
- NordLynx protocol for top-tier speeds
- Unblocks ITV and other platforms
- Easy to use with a polished interface
- Excellent customer support
- Affordable long-term plans
Cons
- Free trial only on Android
2. ExpressVPN
If speed, reliability, and ease of use are your top priorities, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for watching ITV in Australia. Its cutting-edge Lightway protocol brings smooth playback, while its intuitive apps make it accessible for everyone.
Unmatched Speed with Lightway Protocol
When speed matters most, ExpressVPN delivers. Its proprietary Lightway protocol ensures blazing-fast performance, making it perfect for streaming ITV’s HD content without delays. During our tests, we recorded an average speed drop of just 12% when connected to UK servers, allowing for smooth playback of shows like The Saint and live sports events.
Reliable and Wide-Ranging Server Network
ExpressVPN boasts 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including highly optimized locations in the United Kingdom. It is truly one of the best UK VPNs of 2026.
This extensive network ensures stable connections to ITVX and provides reliable access to other geo-restricted content from around the globe. ExpressVPN’s servers in London and Manchester guarantee consistent performance.
User-Friendly Across All Devices
ExpressVPN’s apps are designed for simplicity, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced users. Its native app for routers is a standout feature, enabling you to connect smart TVs and other devices that don’t support VPNs natively. Alternatively, you can use the MediaStreamer feature, a Smart DNS service that simplifies setup on gaming consoles or smart TVs.
Pricing and Money-Back Guarantee
ExpressVPN’s plans start at around $5/month, slightly higher than competitors, but there’s a 2-year plan that makes it even cheaper to get. It’s worth noting that every plan is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service risk-free.
Pros
- Lightning-fast speeds for HD and UHD streaming
- Wide server coverage with optimized UK locations
- Native app for routers and MediaStreamer
- Advanced privacy with a no-logs policy
- 24/7 live chat support for instant assistance
Cons
- Higher cost compared to others
- No free trial option is available
3. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access combines affordability, extensive server coverage, and impressive performance, making it a great choice for watching ITV in Australia. While it may take some time to explore its advanced features, its default settings are reliable for hassle-free streaming.
Unmatched Server Network for Global Accessibility
Private Internet Access (PIA) boasts one of the largest server networks in the VPN industry, with 29,000+ servers across 91 countries, including numerous servers in the UK. This vast network reduces the risk of overcrowding, giving you smooth and reliable connections for streaming ITV from Australia. During our tests, we consistently accessed ITV Hub without interruptions, even during peak hours.
Of course, you can also rely on PIA to access the live streams of all other UK TV channels while abroad.
Consistent Speeds for Buffer-Free Streaming
PIA delivered impressive speeds during our tests, with only a 15% drop on UK servers, so we could stream popular ITV shows in HD. Its streaming-optimized servers worked flawlessly, providing a seamless experience even when switching between different shows or live events.
Beginner-Friendly Setup with Advanced Features
PIA’s pre-configured app beginners can get started without hassle, while advanced users can tweak settings like encryption and protocols for added control. The unlimited device connections feature is a standout, allowing families or groups to stream ITVX on multiple devices simultaneously.
Affordable Pricing with a Risk-Free Guarantee
PIA is the most budget-friendly VPNs on this list, with plans starting at just $2 per month. Despite its competitive pricing, it doesn’t skimp on essential features. Plus, all plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free and get a full refund if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
Pros
- Massive network with UK options
- Unlimited device connections
- Advanced customization features
- Excellent speeds for HD streaming
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- No dedicated streaming servers for ITV
To Conclude
Accessing ITV in Australia doesn’t have to feel like jumping through hoops. Whether you’re catching up on live sports or indulging in classic British dramas, the right VPN transforms the process into a seamless experience.
NordVPN takes the crown for its unmatched balance of speed, unblocking power, and ease of use. Its UK servers deliver buffer-free streaming and a user-friendly experience that’s hard to beat. ExpressVPN shines for those who value lightning-fast speeds and a sleek interface, even if it’s a tad pricier.
Meanwhile, Private Internet Access provides a budget-friendly alternative with vast server coverage and customization options that tech enthusiasts will love. Ultimately, the best VPN for watching ITV in Australia comes down to your priorities—speed, cost, or flexibility.
FAQs
Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about streaming ITV in Australia, ensuring you have all the information you need for an uninterrupted viewing experience.
Can I watch ITV in Australia without a VPN?
Unfortunately, no. ITV is geo-restricted, meaning it’s only available to viewers in the UK. A VPN is the most reliable way to bypass these restrictions by giving you a UK IP address and unlocking access to ITVX from Australia.
Does ITV Hub have a subscription fee?
No, ITV Hub is free to watch. However, there’s an optional ITV Hub+ subscription that removes ads and lets you download shows for offline viewing. A UK payment method may be required to sign up for this premium plan.
Can I use a Smart DNS instead of a VPN?
Yes, but a Smart DNS doesn’t offer the same level of security as a VPN. It only changes your DNS settings to make it look like you’re in the UK without encrypting your traffic. For comprehensive protection and access, a VPN such as NordVPN is the superior choice.
Is using a VPN for ITV legal?
Yes, using a VPN to access geo-restricted content is legal in Australia. However, it may go against ITV’s terms of service. To stay safe, stick to reputable VPNs like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or PIA.