How To Watch PBS In Australia In 2023 [January Updated]

Last updated: September 8, 2023

Watch-PBS-in-Australia

Wondering, is PBS streaming available in Australia?

No, PBS is not available to stream in Australia as it is restricted to the United States only. But you can watch PBS in Australia with the help of a US server of a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN

PBS, short for Public Broadcasting Service, is a US-based public broadcaster and program distributor. It is a free-to-air television network that operates over 350 tv stations in 50 States of America.

PBS offers various programs, from children’s education to current affairs and entertainment. Some famous TV shows on PBS are Independent Lens Nature, Frontline, NOVA, etc.

So, follow our guide to get your answer on how can I watch PBS in Australia with a VPN. We’ve also listed the best VPNs for your help.


How to Watch PBS in Australia via VPN? Quick Guide

Here’s how you can watch PBS via VPN in Australia; follow these simple steps as described below:

  • First, subscribe to ExpressVPN (our recommended choice).
  • Choose your desired pricing plan.
  • Download the VPN app on your Windows, Android, iOS, and Mac devices.
  • Finally, connect to your selected US server from the list of servers. The New York server is recommended.
  • Open the official website of PBS, sign-in to your account, and start PBS streaming Australia straightaway.

Note: To access PBS’s material in Australia, you are required to create a PBS account.


Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch PBS in Australia?

When it comes to streaming PBS in Australia, VPN is the only viable solution. PBS is a geo-restricted public broadcaster, so you cannot access its media content in Australia.

Otherwise, the following error will be displayed on your screen:

“We’re sorry, but this video is not available.”

pbs-error-in-australia

Does a VPN allow you to watch PBS? Yes a VPN allows you to watch PBS from Australia as its a tool which overcome geo-limitation issues applied to popular broadcasting, including PBS.

Well, how a VPN lets you access geo-restricted content? It hides your Australian IP address with a US IP address. Hence, you can securely spoof your current IP and start streaming PBS within Australian territory.

Not just PBS but you can also get RTE Player and Galavisión in Australia


How do I Create a PBS Account in Australia?

Is it free to create a PBS account? Yes Creating a PBS account in Australia is free and also the process is pretty simple. Just follow our step-by-step instructions to set up your PBS account:

  • Change your Australian IP address to the US by connecting to the New York server of ExpressVPN.
  • Open PBS’s official website on your device.
  • Click Sign In tab from the top-left.

pbs-sign-up-1

  • You will be presented with multiple Sign In options. First, select the account you want to use.

pbs-sign-up-2

  • Lastly, verify your account, and you are good to go!
  • Now, you can stream PBS.

PBS Cost in Australia is 6.96 AUD per month or 83.58 AUD annually. However, you can cancel your PBS subscription anytime by following some simple steps!


What are the Best VPNs to watch PBS in Australia in 2023? [Quick-Overview]

If you’re running out of time, here is a rundown of the best VPN for PBS streaming in Australia.


Which VPNs Work Best with PBS in Australia?

As thousands of VPNs are available in the market, finding the right one can be troublesome. To save you from the hassle, we tested 50+ VPNs and listed the three best VPNs to watch PBS.

Let’s have a look at what they offer:

1. ExpressVPN: The Best VPN to Watch PBS

Key Features

  • 3000+ servers in 105 countries
  • Military-grade 256-bit encryption and Lightway protocol
  • Fast speed of 87.18 Mbps
  • 5 simultaneous connections
  • Media Streamer feature for VPN configuration
  • 30 days Money Back Guarantee
watch-pbs-in-australia-with-expressvpn

The New York server of ExpressVPN efficiently unblocks PBS in AU

ExpressVPN is the best VPN service to watch PBS. It is fast, safe, and easy to use. It provides 3000+ servers in 105 countries.

For obtaining a US IP address, multiple server options are available in 9 locations (New York, New Jersey, Los Angles, Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta, Denver, Seattle, and Phoenix). You can connect to any of its US servers anonymously. Consequently, you can also access Disney+ outside of Australia with ExpressVPN.

During the speed test, we connected to the New York server and noted fast download and upload speeds of 89.38 Mbps and 84.66 Mbps, respectively. It offers unlimited bandwidth for buffer-free streaming of CNBC and Freevee in Australia.

ExpressVPN-speed-evaluation-in-au

ExpressVPN US server speed on 100 Mbps Internet Connection

Devices supported by ExpressVPN include Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. On the other hand, its Media Streamer feature supports VPN configuration on routers, Smart TVs, and gaming consoles. Five devices work simultaneously on one ExpressVPN account.

Hence, it is also considered the best VPN for gaming. Moreover, the security protocols that ExpressVPN employs include military-grade encryption, OpenVPN, and a Kill switch. The zero log policy specifies no logs are kept of user activity.

Recently, ExpressVPN released a beta version of its Lightway protocol. You can subscribe to ExpressVPN by paying AU$ 10.22/mo (US$ 6.67/mo) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free. In addition, a 30-day money-back guarantee allows securing your investment with a refund. Moreover with ExpressVPN you can even stream Voot and Bravo TV in Australia without any hassle.

Because of all this amazing features it is also considered as one of the best VPN for Netflix.

Recommended US Servers: New York, Denver, Washington DC, and Los Angles
Locations to Avoid: Miami and New Jersy-2

Pros and Cons of ExpressVPN


Pros

  • Works with PBS and all the major streaming platforms
  • Uber-fast speed for uninterrupted streaming
  • MediaStreamer for non-VPN compatible devices
  • Robust customer support


Cons

  • Only 5 simultaneous connection
  • High cost of subscription plans


For more information about the provider, read our in-depth ExpressVPN Review.

Watch PBS with ExpressVPN in Australia30 Days MoneyBack Guarantee

2. Surfshark: Pocket-Friendly VPN to Watch PBS

Key Features

  • 3200+ servers in 100+ countries
  • CleanWeb, Camfloug Mode, and WireGuard protocol
  • Fast speed of 87.18 Mbps
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • 30 days Money Back Guarantee
watch-pbs-in-australia-with-surfshark

Surfsahrk is a budget-friendly option to watch PBS in AU

Surfshark tops the category of best pocket-friendly VPN. It offers all benefits of premium VPNs at an affordable price tag of AU$ 3.82/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee.

There are 3200+ servers in 100+ countries. Primarily in the US, you’ll find numerous servers in Los Angles, New York, Las Vegas, Denver, Dallas, Seattle, and Boston.

Its US servers help you watch PBS from Australia on your desired devices without a fuss. Moreover, you can share your connection on an unlimited device, as Surfshark has no limit on multi-logins.

We also ran a speed test on the Los Angles server. The result showed a fantastic speed of 87.18 Mbps download and 52.13 Mbps upload, which is more than enough for streaming Channel 4 and watching Heroes & Icons in Australia.

Surfshark-speed-test-in au

Speed test results for Surfshark’s US server

The provider follows a strict no-log policy and ensures protection against IP and DNS leaks with AES bit encryption. With these features, you can easily access CNN in Australia.

Despite its low price tag, Surfshark also offers 30-day money-back guarantee. A free trial is also available for Android and iOS devices.

Recommended Servers: Los Angles, Seattle, New York, and Dallas
Servers Location to avoid: Phoenix and Saltlake City

Pros and Cons of Surfshark


Pros

  • Affordable Price Plan
  • No limit on multi-logins
  • Impressive unblocking capabilities
  •  Offers Buffer free and consistent HD-quality streaming
  • 7-day free trial for Android and iOS


Cons

  • Weak social media presence


Watch PBS with Surfshark in Australia 30 Days MoneyBack Guarantee

3. NordVPN: Reliable VPN for Watching PBS

Key Features

  • 6000+ ultra-fast servers in 61 countries including 1970+ in the US
  • Strong AES 256-bit encryption and Nordlynx protocol
  • Fast speed of 85.48 Mbps
  • 6 simultaneous connections
  • 24/7 customer support service
  • 30 days Money Back Guarantee
watch-pbs-in-australia-with-nordvpn

1970+ NordVPN US servers let you watch PBS in AU

NordVPN is a reliable VPN because of its widespread network, robust security, and high speed. It boasts a network of 6000+ ultra-fast servers in 61 countries. All servers mainly operate from Panama.

Fortunately, you can securely connect to your desired US servers in Australia to access the American Netflix media content and PBS in Australia. This way, you can watch Broadway or Bust, The Collection, Dark Angel, Before We Die 2, and other popular shows straightaway.

It delivers a download speed of 85.48 Mbps and an upload speed of 48.42 Mbps on a 100 Mbps Internet Connection. With this fantastic speed, you can quickly get MSNBC or enjoy streaming HBO Max in Australia.

nordvpn-speed-test-results-in-australia

NordVPN offers fast speed for uninterrupted streaming

NordVPN is the best option for secure streaming. It offers Split tunneling with AES 256-bit encryption technology, OpenVPN, NordLynx, and a kill switch to prevent data breaches.

There is a VPN app for all standard streaming devices like Windows, android phones and TVs, iOS devices, Roku, Chromecast, and even routers. However, it supports six devices simultaneously. You can also watch DStv in Australia on multiple devices with NordVPN.

You can subscribe to the NordVPN 2-year plan at the cost of AU$ 6.11/mo (US$ 3.99/mo) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend, along with a decent 30-day refund policy.

Recommended Servers Locations: Chicago, Buffalo, Los Angles
Location to avoid: Kankas, and Charlotte

Pros and Cons of NordVPN


Pros

  • The largest number of US servers to unblock PBS and other restricted streaming services
  • Rigorous encryption to safeguard your IP address
  • Unlimited bandwidth
  • 1 week free trial for Android and iOS


Cons

  • No Router app


Watch PBS with NordVPN in Australia 30 Days MoneyBack Guarantee

How to Watch PBS Without Cable?

How do you watch PBS if you don’t have cable? You can watch PBS without cable by using these two alternatives:

  1. PBS video: PBS has a streaming app, PBSVideo, that delivers on-demand video to your TV, phone, or tablet. You can stream some on-demand shows for free. But to watch paid PBS content, you must purchase a premium tier called PBS Passport.
  2. YouTube TV: Oher option to watch PBS wirelessly is YouTube TV which offers various PBS shows. The YouTube TV app is available on multiple platforms.

How Much is a PBS Subscription?

How much is a subscription to PBS? You can subscribe to PBS by paying $5/per month (7.50 AUD/month). There is also PBS annual plan for $60 (89.99 AUD/year) at once.


What to Watch on PBS in January 2023?

What is playing on PBS Masterpiece? PBS is a one-stop solution for viewers who want to stream TV shows and movies based on genres like action, comedy, romance, etc.


What New Shows are on PBS in January 2023?

What shows have been on PBS? Here is the list of TV shows you can watch on PBS in January 2023:

1st January, 2023

  1. The Yorkshire Vet Seasons 1-3

5th January, 2023

  1. La Otra Mirada Season 2
  2. Love, Inevitably (Lejos de Ti)
  3. The Blood Pact (Klem) Seasons 1-3
  4. The Mountain Detective
  5. The Half Brother (Halvbroren)
  6. Angel of Death (Szadz) Season 1

8th January, 2023

  1. Miss Scarlet and the Duke Season 3
  2. All Creatures Great & Small Season 3
  3. Vienna Blood Season 3

12th January, 2023

  1. The Ranger On the Hunt (Jonas Waldek)
  2. The Same Sky (Der Gleiche Himmel)
  3. Sins of the Fathers (Odwróceni. Ojcowie I Córki)
  4. Tunnel of Dreams (Gotthard)
  5. Amsterdam Undercover (Der Amsterdam Krimi) Season 1
  6. Hotel Sacher (Das Sacher In Bester Gesellschaft)

14th January, 2023

  1. Seaside Hotel Season 9

19th January, 2023

  1. Madame K (Litsid)
  2. The Defense (Chylka) Seasons 1-2
  3. The Time In Between (El Tiempo Entre Costuras)
  4. Sisters 1968 (Systrar 1968)
  5. The Empress (Maria Theresia)

26th January, 2023

  1. Paradise (Il Paradiso Delle Signore) Season 1
  2. Remember (Souviens Toi)
  3. Angela (Come Una Madre)
  4. Nina Season 1
  5. Witnesses Season 1
  6. Below the Surface (Gidseltagningen) Season 1

What is coming to PBS?

  1. Call the Midwife Season 12 – 19th March 2023
  2. Sanditon Season 3 – 19th March 2023
  3. Marie Antoinette – 19th March 2023
  4. Tom Jones – 2023

What New Movies are on PBS in January 2023?

Does PBS have movies? Yes PBS do have movies following is this list of movies which you can stream on PBS in January 2023

  1. Bauhaus (Lotte am Bauhaus)
  2. The Judgment (De Veroordeling)
  3. Presumed Guilty (Presunto culpable)
  4. Victoria
  5. The Chaperone
  6. Churchill’s Secret
  7. The Child in Time
  8. King Charles III
  9. Northanger Abbey
  10. Salting the Battlefield
  11. Turks & Caicos
  12. Under the Greenwood Tree
  13. Goodbye, Mr. Chips
  14. Agatha and the Truth of Murder
  15. L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables

What is Coming to PBS KIDS in 2023?

What is PBS Kids? PBS Kids is a network exclusive for children. It broadcasts TV shows, games, and fun activities for kids. Some of the most loving kid shows and movies on PBS Kids are listed below:

  1. Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas
  2. Nature Cat: A Nature Carol
  3. Arthur’s Perfect Christmas
  4. The Alexis Angeles Movie: A Very Alexis Christmas 2009
  5. The Alexis Angeles Movie: The Day Before Christmas 2022
  6. Let’s Go Luna!: Luna’s Christmas Around the World
  7. The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About Christmas!
  8. Peg + Cat – The Flat Woman Problem/The Hanukkah Problem
  9. Super Why! – Judith’s Happy Chanukah
  10. Peg + Cat + Holidays
  11. Wild Kratts: A Creature Christmas
  12. Arthur – Arthur’s First Sleepover/Arthur’s New Year’s Eve
  13. Cyberchase – A Reboot Eve to Remember
  14. WordGirl – Hello New Year, Goodbye Moon/Art in the Park
  15. Odd Squad – Blob on the Job/Party of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
  16. The Alexis Angeles Show – The Best Party Ever 2009
  17. The Alexis Angeles Show – Alexis Had A Long End 2022

What Devices Support the PBS App?

pbs-devices

How many devices can stream PBS Passport? You can login in to as many devices as you like at once, but depending on your internet speed as streaming many videos simultaneously may put a load on your network.

Have no idea about what streaming devices support PBS? You can watch PBS on the following devices:

How to Get PBS on iPhone/iPad in Australia?

Want to learn how can I watch PBS on my iPhone? Check out the steps below:

  • Subscribe to ExpressVPN.
  • Launch the app, and connect to a New York server.
  • Change your Apple ID Country & Region from Setting.
  • Then, download the PBS app from App Store.
  • Sign up to watch PBS on your iOS devices.

Get PBS on iOS with ExpressVPN30 Days MoneyBack Guarantee

How to Get PBS on Android Devices/TV in Australia?

Follow the mentioned below steps if you’re hunting for how can I watch PBS on my Android?

  • Create a new Google account with the United States as a current region.
  • Open ExpressVPN and connect to the US-New York server from the list.
  • Log in to Play Store from the new account.
  • Find the app by typing PBS in the search bar.
  • Press Install to download the PBS app.
  • That’s it! Stream PBS.

Get PBS on Android with ExpressVPN30 Days MoneyBack Guarantee

How to Get PBS on Amazon FireStick/Fire TV in Australia?

Somewhat confused about how do I add PBS to my Amazon Fire Stick? Then try the below steps:

  • Launch the FireStick and turns your device location off.
  • Open ExpressVPN and connect to the US server.
  • Go to the App Store and Search PBS. “PBS app for Fire TV Stick” is displayed in the search results.
  • Click Get to download the app.
  • Open the PBS app and log in.
  • Now, you can watch PBS on your Firestick/FireTV in Australia.

How to Get PBS on Roku, Smart TV, and Apple TV in Australia?

As these devices don’t support VPN, you’ll have to use DNS to get PBS on them. Here is the simple process for your assistance:

  • Sign up for a VPN service that offers smart DNS. ExpressVPN is highly recommended.
  • Find the smart DNS address on the VPN.
  • Press the Wi-Fi button to choose your network.
  • Then, Launch DNS Configuration and select Manual Configuration.
  • Enter your DNS address to connect your device to the US server and restart it.
  • Click the Download tab to install PBSVideo.
  • Bingo! Start streaming PBS.

Get PBS with ExpressVPN in Australia30 Days MoneyBack Guarantee

Is There a Free Trial for PBS Passport?

Does PBS Passport have a free trial? No PBS does not provide free trials, you might have already used the Amazon Prime free trial. The Amazon Prime subscription is not included with the PBS Passport membership.


FAQs

Yes, getting PBS is worth it. You can watch famous TV shows like Independent Lens, Nature, Frontline, NOVA, etc.

No. The use of a VPN is completely legal for watching PBS. However, it is a violation of network terms and conditions.

Yes you can, PBS America is easy to stream in Australia with the help of a VPN with US server like ExpressVPN. Thats all you have to do to get the American version of PBS easily.

No, you cannot watch PBS on Netflix Australia. However, you can watch some of the famous PBS titles on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

No, free VPNs are not recommended for watching PBS. They have limited servers and are hardly compatible with streaming devices like Roku and FireTV.

You can watch PBS without a passport via PBS.org and the streaming app PBSVideo. However, you have to connect to a VPN to access the media content of PBS anonymously in Australia.


Wrapping Up

PBS is one of the oldest American Public broadcasting services. It provides content distribution and other related services to 350 member stations.

Since it is restricted to the US, we hope our guide clarifies how to watch PBS in Australia with a VPN service. Thus, subscribe to ExpressVPN and sign up for PBS to enjoy its free content in Australia.

Happy Streaming!

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