How to Watch HBO Max in Australia in 2024

HBO Max (now simply Max) offers the best of TV and film in 60+ countries worldwide, whether it’s critically acclaimed HBO hits, DC hero flicks, Warner Bros, Cartoon Network, or Discovery+ content. Unfortunately, HBO Max won’t be available in Australia any time soon, due to Foxtel, Binge, and Stan having exclusive rights to HBO content. Moreover, the US Max library has the most content.

Even if you have a US account, if you live in or travel to Australia, you won't be able to use it. Luckily, there is a workaround for this. You can use a VPN to unblock HBO Max in Australia. All you have to do is connect to a server in the US and it will seem like you're located in the States. This will bypass Max's geo-restrictions, so you can stream it from anywhere.

In this article, we’ll teach you how to watch HBO Max in Australia, explain why you need a VPN and recommend which one to use. We'll also walk you through how to pay for a subscription if you don’t have a valid form of US payment. Plus, you'll learn how much Max costs, what you can watch on it, and much more. Lastly, we answer some FAQs on the topic.

How to Watch HBO Max in Australia

To stream HBO Max in AUS, you’ll have to change your virtual location to the US. You can do so by getting a US IP with a VPN, which will allow you to sign up for a US Max account, as seen below:

1. Sign up for a VPN that can unblock the US Max service (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN app on your PC or smartphone.
3. Connect to a US server from the provider’s list.
4. Go to the new HBO Max website and select “Sign Up Now.”

5. Select a plan and click “Continue.”

6. Add your account info, then continue by clicking “Create Account.”

7. Choose a payment method (US card or PayPal required).

8. Input your payment details, then click “Start Subscription” and enjoy Max content!

Keep in mind that you'll need a payment method with a US billing address to subscribe to Max in Australia. Your options are using a US debit or credit card or a US PayPal account. If you don't have one, don't worry—we’ll offer instructions for some alternative methods later in this article, including a virtual prepaid credit card, a Google Play gift card, or an Apple gift card.

Do You Need a VPN for Streaming US HBO Max in Australia?

Yes, you need a VPN for watching HBO Max in Australia because the standalone service isn’t available there. Foxtel and WarnerMedia entered a multi-year partnership, so Max can’t launch in Australia until it ends. Binge and Stan offer some HBO Max titles, too, but the content is limited. The full Max service is available in the US, the Caribbean, and Latin America; HBO Max is offered in many European countries.

Australian users trying to watch HBO Max outside the US without a VPN will encounter this geo-block error instead: “Max is Not Available in Your Region. To learn more about where you can stream Max or to get troubleshooting tips, visit our Help Center.” 

Bypassing such errors is easy. All you need to do is change your device’s IP address by using a VPN. In this case, you’ll have to connect to a VPN server in the United States to get a US IP. That way, you can easily sign up for the all-new Max service using the guide in the previous section of our article.

Note that not all VPNs will work on HBO Max. Major streaming platforms like Max filter VPN traffic to keep their geo-restrictions intact. You’ll need the best VPN for HBO Max to access the streamer reliably. NordVPN is our top choice because it has blazing-fast speeds, strong unblocking abilities, and can access US HBO Max effortlessly.

The Best VPN for Accessing Max Streaming Service in Australia

Finding the right VPN requires making sure the provider can meet several crucial criteria. First, it should be able to unblock HBO Max without a hitch. You’ll need a VPN with a massive worldwide network (with plenty of servers in the US) to get the best HBO Max libraries anywhere in the world. This will also allow you to unblock any other streaming services you might want to watch.

Make sure the VPN you choose delivers amazing speeds and steady performance. Naturally, it should also have a kill switch and obfuscation to keep your IP and VPN activity hidden at all times. Couple that with strong encryption and secure protocols, as well as a strict no-logs policy to complete the privacy package.

Moreover, the VPN must work on all popular systems like computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and more. Make sure it provides multiple simultaneous connections for streaming HBO Max and other purposes. Ideally, the provider will have reasonably priced plans. Finally, look for 24/7 live chat and a robust money-back guarantee in case of any issues.

Based on the criteria above, these are the 4 best VPNs to unblock HBO Max in Australia in 2024:

1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch US HBO Max in Australia in 2024
2. Surfshark - Stream HBO Max in AUS Easily on Any Device
3. ExpressVPN - Fast and Secure VPN to Unblock HBO Max in Australia
4. CyberGhost VPN - Affordable VPN for Accessing Max Streaming Service in AU

1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch US HBO Max in Australia in 2024

NordVPN is the best VPN for watching HBO Max in AU because it's capable of unblocking HBO Max from anywhere. Its SmartPlay feature changes DNS servers on the fly to get past pesky geo-blocks. Plus, there are over 6,300+ servers in 111 countries worldwide (including 1,970+ in 16 US locations) to use with various streaming sites.

You can expect blazing-fast speeds and consistent performance, even when using distant servers. This isn't surprising because NordVPN is among the fastest VPNs in the market. We experienced no buffering issues when streaming HD and 4K content on Max or any other tested platform.

NordVPN has a whole suite of specialized servers, including obfuscated ones to mask your VPN usage online. It also includes a customizable kill switch you can use to shut off Internet traffic on a per-app basis.

NordVPN’s no-logs claims have also been thoroughly audited, so rest assured that your data is never stored or shared anywhere. Furthermore, you'll get to choose from all the latest protocols and encryption standards to keep your data safe. There is OpenVPN or IKEv2/IPsec with AES-256-GCM encryption, as well as the WireGuard-based NordLynx option that pairs with ChaCha20 encryption.

The VPN works on most major platforms out there, such as Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, macOS, smart TVs, routers, and various others. Better yet, you get 10 simultaneous connections to stream HBO Max in Australia and have plenty left over for other activities.

Even with its impressive package of features and performance, NordVPN is still quite affordable. It has a 2-year plan for as low as $3.09 per month. As with any top-tier provider, NordVPN offers 24/7 live chat to help with any technical issues. There’s also a standard 30-day money-back guarantee in case you want to check out other options.

2. Surfshark - Stream HBO Max in AUS Easily on Any Device

Surfshark is another impressive VPN that you can use to access HBO Max in Australia. It effortlessly unblocks HBO Max and other streaming services from anywhere in the world. This is thanks to 600+ servers in the US that are part of its larger worldwide network of 3,200+ servers in 100 countries.

This VPN's superior unblocking abilities are supported by its Nexus technology. Nexus rotates your IP and uses its entire server network to improve speeds and stabilize your connection. Overall, you'll get lightning-fast speeds and stable performance regardless of which server you connect to.

Surfshark comes with network-wide obfuscation and a reliable kill switch to prevent your real IP from leaking if the VPN disconnects. It also follows a no-logs policy that has been audited by a third party. Additionally, it uses AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption to secure your data, along with WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols for data transmission.

You can use Surfshark on all popular devices, including computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, routers, and more. Best of all, it allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a great choice for sharing with friends or family.

Surfshark is quite affordable, offering a 2-year plan for $2.29 per month. Lastly, it lets you test its services risk-free with its 30-day refund period. If you need any help or have questions, you can contact their round-the-clock customer support via chat.

3. ExpressVPN - Fast and Secure VPN to Unblock HBO Max in Australia

ExpressVPN is great for accessing HBO Max in AU because it can easily unblock Max and other streamers. With thousands of servers in 105 countries (including 24 server locations in the US), you’ll have no trouble accessing any sites and services worldwide.

Needless to say, ExpressVPN is capable of delivering high-speed connections and reliable performance whether you’re watching in Australia or overseas. Luckily, its automatic, network-wide obfuscation has little to no impact on streaming speeds.

ExpressVPN includes a trusty kill switch for VPN disconnections to shut off Internet activity until you can safely reconnect. The provider also maintains a strict no-logs policy that’s been independently audited to guarantee complete privacy.

The VPN secures your data with industry-standard protocols such as OpenVPN and IKEv2 with AES-256 encryption. Alternatively, you can use the in-house Lightway option with WolfSSL encryption for better speeds and top-notch security.

As expected, ExpressVPN works on Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, Android, smart TVs, and more. Another option is to install its router app (if you have a compatible router). That way, you can add VPN protection to your game consoles, streaming boxes, and other gadgets. You may connect up to 8 devices simultaneously per subscription, which is plenty for most people.

Unfortunately, ExpressVPN is on the expensive side, with its cheapest option being a 1-year plan for $6.67 per month. All plans are backed by a hefty 30-day money-back guarantee, and there’s 24/7 customer support via live chat ready to answer any of your questions.

4. CyberGhost VPN - Affordable VPN for Accessing Max Streaming Service in AU

CyberGhost uses its massive network of streaming-optimized servers to unblock HBO Max and 40+ other sites in Australia. Subscribers get to choose from thousands of servers in 100 countries, including 1,900+ in 11 cities around the US.

The VPN is capable of medium-fast speeds and has high-performance servers for streaming quality content in HD and 4K. Remote servers tend to be slower than its competitors, but CyberGhost plans are more budget-friendly to compensate.

What’s sorely missing is any form of obfuscation, although we had no trouble unblocking any of the streaming platforms listed on the provider’s website. At least there’s an always-on kill switch to protect you against IP leaks, with no risk of turning it off by accident.

Privacy-wise, CyberGhost comes with an audited no-logs policy, as well as all the latest protocols. You get to choose between OpenVPN or IKEv2/IPsec (both AES-256-enabled), or the fast and lightweight WireGuard (with ChaCha20 encryption).

CyberGhost allows 7 simultaneous connections so you can enjoy HBO Max, secure your household gadgets, play online games securely, and so on. The VPN comes with easy-to-use apps that work flawlessly on platforms like Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, smart TVs, and more.

We are fans of CyberGhost's inexpensive pricing (2 years for as little as $2.03 per month) and a generous 45-day money-back guarantee on longer plans. And, of course, you can turn to the service’s customer support available 24/7 for any issues you may encounter.

How Much is HBO Max in Australia?

The cost of an HBO Max subscription ranges from $9.99 (AUD 15.40) per month to $199.99 (AUD 308.25) per year. More specifically, you have three monthly Max plans to choose from: With Ads ($9.99), Ad-Free ($15.99), and Ultimate Ad-Free ($19.99). At first glance, the HBO Max price in Australia may seem steep, but they’re not far off from Netflix and similar platforms.

Here’s a rundown of the features and prices of the Max streaming service in Australia:

Subscription	Price in USD	Price in AUD	Features
With Ads	$9.99/month ($99.99/year)	AUD 15.40/month (AUD 154.12/year)	- Stream on 2 screens at once - Full HD video
Ad-Free	$15.99/month ($149.99/year)	AUD 24.65/month (AUD 231.18/year)	- Stream on 2 screens at once - Full HD video - 30 downloads to watch on the go
Ultimate Ad-Free	$19.99/month ($199.99/year)	AUD 30.81/month (AUD 308.25/year)	- Stream on 4 screens at once - 4K video, Dolby Atmos audio - 100 downloads for offline viewing

How Do I Pay for HBO Max in Australia?

To pay for US Max in Australia, there are a few alternate ways in case you don’t have a valid US credit or debit card. These include paying with an Apple gift card or Google Play gift card (sadly, there’s no such thing as an HBO Max gift card) or using a virtual prepaid card or US PayPal account. Read on for step-by-step instructions.

Using an Apple Gift Card

You’ll need a US Apple ID for streaming HBO Max in Australia with an Apple gift card. You’ll also want a VPN to spoof your location while streaming. These are the steps you need to follow:

1. Subscribe to a VPN that supports HBO Max (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Install the VPN on your Apple device.
3. Launch the app and connect to a US server.
4. Sign up for a US-based Apple ID (with a United States address).
5. Grab a US Apple gift card and add the funds to your new account.

6. Download the HBO Max app from the App Store.



7. Open it, then subscribe using your account funds.
8. Select your preferred content and start watching.

Using a Google Play Gift Card

You can also pay for HBO Max using a US Google account and a Google Play Store gift card. Remember: you’ll need a VPN to hide your location, too. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Sign up for a VPN that works on HBO Max (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download the VPN to your device.
3. Open the VPN and connect to a US server.
4. Create a new Google account and set its address to the US.
5. Get a US Google Play gift card and redeem the funds.

6. Download the Max app from the Google Play Store.



7. Launch the app, then subscribe to HBO Max as usual.
8. Pick a show or movie and enjoy.

Using a Virtual Prepaid Card

Getting a virtual credit card with a US billing address will let you easily subscribe to HBO Max in Australia. You’ll also need to use a VPN to unblock Max. Follow the steps below to make things simple:

1. Get a VPN that works for HBO Max (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN on your streaming device.
3. Launch the VPN app and connect to a US server.
4. Open USUnlocked and click on “Get Started.”



5. Enter your details and complete the registration process.



6. Fund your account to get your new virtual payment card details.
7. Go to the HBO Max website and sign up as usual.
8. When checking out, pick “Credit or Debit Card” and add your new card.



9. Click “Start Subscription” to complete your purchase and start streaming!

Using a US PayPal Account

If you know someone in the US who will let you use their PayPal account, that will make things easier. Then, you'll need a VPN to unblock HBO Max and subscribe. Here's what to do:

1. Subscribe to a VPN that can unblock HBO Max (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN on your device for streaming Max in Australia.
3. Open the VPN and connect to a US-based server.
4. Go to the HBO Max website and complete the sign-up process.
5. Select the PayPal option at checkout.



6. Complete your purchase through PayPal's interface using the US PayPal account.
7. That’s it! After you're redirected back to Max, you can start streaming.

How to Get HBO Max on Your Devices in Australia

To stream HBO Max on your devices in Australia, you'll first need to get a VPN and connect to a server in the US. After that, it depends on your device. Some may require installing a VPN on your router. We created super-handy guides for the most popular devices that you can choose from below:

Mobile Platforms	iPhone & iPad, Android
Game Consoles	PlayStation, Xbox
Smart TVs	Smart TV, Samsung Smart TV, LG Smart TV, Android TV
Other Streaming Devices	Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, TiVo, Xfinity X1 and Flex

What to Watch on HBO Max in Australia?

The all-new Max streaming service holds all the best shows previously found on HBO Max. This covers HBO mega-hits like Game of Thrones and Succession, as well as quality Max Originals like Station Eleven and Peacemaker. Some of the best movies on HBO Max include the Oscar-winning Parasite, The Matrix franchise, spy thrillers like Skyfall, and more.

Aside from these HBO Max series, you can tune into Discovery+ content from networks like TLC, HGTV, The Food Network, ID, Magnolia, Discovery, and more. There’s also a wide variety of series and movies from Warner Bros. and the DC Universe, plus family-friendly animation from Cartoon Network (or Adult Swim for mature audiences). Here are some great titles to add to your watch list:

HBO Series	HBO Max Movies	Max Originals	HBO Max Classic Shows
True Detective: Night Country	Parasite	Tokyo Vice	Doctor Who
Barry	Barbie	Our Flag Means Death	Rick and Morty
The Last of Us	Hereditary	Love & Death	Friends
House of the Dragon	The Banshees of Inisherin	And Just Like That	South Park
The Gilded Age	Central Intelligence	The Flight Attendant	The Big Bang Theory
The Regime	Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom	Hacks	The O.C.

Can you Watch HBO Max on Foxtel, Binge & Stan in Australia?

Yes, you can currently stream some HBO Max content through Foxtel, Binge, or Stan in Australia. That said, the complete HBO Max library isn’t available through any of these services. Only the US Max service contains everything the platform has to offer.

This is all due to complicated licensing restrictions and multi-year exclusive distribution deals that WarnerMedia made with Foxtel, Binge, and Stan. Even if certain titles eventually make it to Foxtel, Binge, and Stan, they’ll be delayed.

In short, you’re better off using a VPN to gain access to the standalone Max service so you can enjoy all the content you won't be able to get in Australia right away (or ever).

Can You Unblock Max in AUS Using a Free VPN?

Yes, you can unblock Max in Australia using a free VPN. However, there is no guarantee it will work, and it probably won't be the most pleasant experience if it does. Max and many other streamers block free VPN IPs to restrict the content you can access locally. They also lack the necessary privacy and security measures to unblock Max or even safely access the Internet.

Worse yet, many free VPNs collect and sell your data to make up for not charging anything. Plus, they have monthly data caps, a small number of servers, and slow speeds that make using them for streaming difficult. We suggest that you get a premium VPN trial for free instead.

Our top choice is the free NordVPN trial, which is offered on Android devices for 7 days. You can also use its money-back guarantee to test it on other devices for 30 days. After the trial is done, should you decide to get a long-term plan, we recommend using one of the best VPN providers to stream Max with zero restrictions.

Final Thoughts

HBO Max is available in many countries around the world, but it's unfortunately not available in Australia. Some HBO Max content is available in Australia through Foxtel, Binge, and Stan, but you won't get access to the full US Max library. This also means you won't be able to use your existing Max account if you travel to Australia. Luckily, you can use a VPN to unblock HBO Max in Australia.

NordVPN is our top choice for accessing HBO Max in Australia due to its 1,970+ high-performance US servers. You'll enjoy blazing-fast streaming speeds, so you won't have to worry about any annoying buffering. Moreover, you get powerful obfuscation, which hides your VPN usage, and SmartPlay to help bypass geo-blocks.

That’s all there is to know about how to watch HBO Max in Australia. Thanks for reading, and drop a comment below if you need any more help!