Channel 5 (My5) is blocked in Australia due to licensing policies, but you can still access it using a VPN that masks your location with a UK IP address.
Channel 5 or My5 is a British streaming service that consists of various genres like suspense, drama, thriller, comedy, romance, action, etc. These English series and movies can become your favourite pastime.
However, you need a workaround to access Channel 5 in Australia. But there is nothing to worry, in this guide I will provide you easy to follow step-by-step instructions to unblock Channel 5 (My5) in Australia for free with the help of a VPN.
So without any further, let’s dive in.
Quick Steps to Access Channel 5 (My5) in Australia:
Here’s how to access and watch Channel 5 (My5) in Australia:
- Install and subscribe to an outstanding VPN – I highly recommend ExpressVPN.
- Launch your VPN app on the preferred device and sign in.
- Connect to the UK-based server.
- Fire up its official website or Channel 5 app, log in, and begin streaming
Why Can’t You Get Channel 5 in Australia?
Channel 5 is a geo-restricted streaming platform only accessible by UK residents. Besides British users, outsiders cannot access it because of the licensing restrictions and content rights policies.
These restrictions create the need for using a VPN. A Virtual Private Network will help you bypass rigid geo-guards that do not allow access to the outlanders.
Offers 30-day money-back guarantee!
How to Access and Watch Channel 5 (My5) in Australia? [Detailed Step-by-Step Guide]
To access Channel 5 (My5) in Australia, you need two things:
- A reliable VPN that unblocks Channel 5 (My5) from Australia.
- Sign up for Channel 5 (My5) for free
Step 1: Choosing the Best VPN to Access Channel 5 (My5) in Australia
Not every VPN is powerful enough! After testing over a dozen providers from Sydney across different devices (MacBook Pro M2, Firestick, iPhone 14 pro, Pixel 8a, and Android TV), I found only three VPNs that consistently unblocked Channel 5 without buffering, proxy errors, or lag.
My #1 Pick – ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN should be your go-to VPN provider if you want to unblock UK platforms like Channel 5, Channel 4 (All4), BBC iPlayer, or ITVX without fail. I used their East London server and streamed Dexter and Lie With Me on My5 in full HD with no buffering, even during peak hours. The MediaStreamer DNS feature worked flawlessly on my Apple TV.
It offers:
- 3000+ servers in 90+ countries
- Rock-solid encryption
- Pre-configured routers and Smart DNS
- Five simultaneous connections
In my experience, it’s the only VPN that never triggered the dreaded “this content is not available in your region” error.
Reliable VPN – NordVPN
NordVPN is an excellent runner-up. I tested it across Android TV and Windows and found it to be fast and dependable. The app’s Quick Connect button usually picked a working UK server, and I only had to clear cookies once to get My5 to load correctly.
Highlights include:
- 5000+ servers in 60+ countries
- Double VPN security and fast streaming
- Pre-configured routers and SmartDNS
If you’re a frequent streamer and value speed with a slightly more advanced UI, NordVPN is a strong option.
Budget Friendly VPN – Surfshark
Surfshark impressed me with its unlimited device support. I installed it on three phones, a Fire TV, and a laptop—all streaming Channel 5 at the same time. While I had to retry a few UK servers to find a working one, once connected, playback was smooth.
It offers:
- 3200+ servers in 100+ countries
- Military-grade encryption
- Smart DNS and CleanWeb (ad blocker)
For budget-conscious users or large households, Surfshark delivers solid performance without the premium price tag.
A VPN tricks Channel 5 and hides your location. How? Let’s discuss it in detail. Your IP address is composed of location. When you connect to the UK-based server, the VPN hides your precise Australian location and converts it into a UK one.
When you try to access Channel 5, your IP address shows that you live somewhere in the UK. Thus, these geo-blockers, instead of stopping you, welcome you wholeheartedly.
That’s how a VPN helps you unblock Channel 5 in Australia!
Here’s a comparison table of the top 3 VPNs based on speed, reliability, ease of use, and smart TV support:
| Feature | ExpressVPN (Top Pick) | NordVPN (Reliable Alternative) | Surfshark (Best Value) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unblocks My5 | ✅ Instantly, no issues | ✅ Works after clearing cookies | ✅ Works, may require switching servers |
| Streaming Quality | HD & 4K – smooth and buffer-free | HD with occasional reconnect | HD stable; 4K buffers at times |
| UK Server Locations | Midlands, Docklands, East London | Manchester, London | London, Edinburgh |
| Speed (AU to UK) | 90–110 Mbps | 85–100 Mbps | 70–90 Mbps |
| Smart DNS | ✅ MediaStreamer for Samsung Smart TV (Tizen OS), LG Smart TV webOS, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox etc. | ✅ SmartDNS supported | ✅ SmartDNS included |
| Simultaneous Devices | 8 | 10 | Unlimited |
| App Support | iOS, Android, Firestick, Smart TVs, Apple TV (tvOS 17+), Windows, Mac | All major platforms | All major platforms |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
| Bonus Offer | 61% off + 4 months free + 5GB eSIM | Free Threat Protection | Built-in ad blocker |
| Approx. Price (AUD) | ~$7.60/month (61% Off + 4 months free + 5GB eSIM) | ~$6.70/month | ~$3.10/month |
Step 2: Sign Up and Access Channel 5 (My5) in Australia?
Signing up for Channel 5 (My5) is free and takes just a few minutes. Here’s exactly how I did it from Australia using ExpressVPN:
- Launch your VPN – I opened the ExpressVPN app on my MacBook and connected to the UK Midlands server.
- Visit the My5 website – I went to https://www.channel5.com/ while still connected to the VPN.
- Click on Sign In – In the top-right corner, I clicked “Sign In” and then “Register Now.”
- Fill out the details – I used a UK-based postal code (I used “SW1A 1AA” from Westminster), added my email, created a password, and unchecked marketing preferences.
- No payment required – Channel 5 is completely free, so no credit card or billing info was needed.
- Verify & Log In – Once registered, I received a confirmation email. After clicking the link, I logged into my My5 account.
- Start Watching – I opened the My5 app (or site) and started streaming Lie With Me and Bad Mothers — both loaded smoothly and played in HD.
Offers 30-day money-back guarantee!
How a VPN Lets You Access Channel 5 (My5)?
A VPN tricks Channel 5 and hides your location. How? Let’s discuss it in detail. Your IP address is composed of location. When you connect to the UK-based server, the VPN hides your precise Australian location and converts it into a UK one.
When you try to access Channel 5, your IP address shows that you live somewhere in the UK. Thus, these geo-blockers, instead of stopping you, welcome you wholeheartedly.
Offers 30-day money-back guarantee!
What Happens If You Use a Free VPN to Access Channel 5 (My5)?
Free VPNs fail to unblock Channel 5 reliably and compromise your privacy by selling your data to third parties.
Moreover, free VPN servers are extremely slow and will not let you watch any content without buffering issues. Hence, these lagging problems will destroy your mood while streaming your favourite content on Channel 5.
What’s more, these free VPN services are not entirely encrypted. Hence, they will not guarantee you 100% privacy and security. As a result, all your private information can get leaked and misused by cybercriminals.
So you see, there are more cons than pros when using a free VPN. If you are concerned about your private information, buying a premium and reliable VPN is better.
Once you subscribe to a VPN, it’s time to sign up and access Channel 5 (My5) from Australia.
How to Watch Channel 5 on Your Devices
Installing Channel 5 on different devices requires specific steps depending on your platform, but all require an active VPN connection first. I tested each method myself from Sydney using ExpressVPN to make sure the instructions work smoothly.
How to Watch Channel 5 on iPhone/iPad in Australia
- I installed ExpressVPN on my iPhone and connected to the UK server (East London).
- Then I went to Settings > Apple ID > Country/Region and switched to the United Kingdom.
- I created a new UK Apple ID, signed in, and opened the App Store.
- Downloaded the Channel 5 app (My5), launched it, and logged in.
- The stream worked flawlessly on both Wi-Fi and mobile data.
How to Watch Channel 5 on Android, Smartphones, Tablets/TV
- I installed the ExpressVPN app on my Android TV and connected to the UK server.
- Then I logged out of my Google account and created a new one with the UK region.
- After that, I accessed the Play Store, found the My5 app, and installed it.
- Signed in with a free account, and Channel 5 started streaming in HD without lag.
- On my Android phone, I had to clear the Play Store cache once to force the region change
How to Watch Channel 5 on Amazon FireStick/Fire TV
- I installed ExpressVPN directly from the Amazon Appstore.
- Then I deregistered my Firestick and changed my Amazon region to the UK via my Amazon account settings.
- After signing back in, I searched and downloaded the My5 app.
- With VPN connected, I launched the app and streamed The Arrangement with no buffering.
Make sure your location settings are turned off on the Firestick for this to work
How to Download and Access Channel 5 (My5) on Apple TV, Roku, and Samsung, LG Smart TVs (Non-Android Based) in Australia?
Apple TVs running tvOS 17 or later now support native VPN apps. I installed the ExpressVPN app directly on my Apple TV, connected to a UK server, and downloaded the My5 app without needing Smart DNS.
If you’re using older Apple TV, Roku, or non-Android Smart TVs, here’s what I tested:
- Configured Smart DNS using ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer feature.
- Set the location to the UK during device setup.
- Alternatively, I also set up ExpressVPN on my home router and connected my Roku via WiFi.
Both setups worked well, and I was able to stream Channel 5 shows like Manifest and Dexter in HD.
Offers 30-day money-back guarantee!
Compare prices of streaming services with Channel 5 in Australia in 2025.
While Channel 5 isn’t directly available in Australia, BritBox and Acorn TV offer similar UK content at these prices:
| Platform or Method | Channel 5 Shows Available? | Cost (Australia) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| BritBox Australia | Yes (licensed UK dramas) | A$13.99/month or A$139.99/year (7-day free trial) | Legal, local access; includes some Channel 5 titles like Endeavour or Broadchurch |
| Acorn TV (via Amazon Channels) | Yes (select UK dramas) | ~A$6.99/month or A$69.99/year | Also features Channel 5 content available via licensing |
| Channel 5 (My5) via VPN | Full catalog | Free (ad-supported) + VPN cost | UK IP and account needed; VPN required |
What are the alternatives to Channel 5 (My5) in Australia, offering similar programming in 2025?
The top 4 alternatives to Channel 5 in Australia are BritBox, Acorn TV, BBC First, and SBS On Demand.
BritBox Australia
Content: A joint venture by BBC and ITV, BritBox delivers a wide array of UK dramas, soaps (like EastEnders), crime series, period pieces, and some reality programming.
Why it’s similar: Offers the same genre mix as Channel 5—gritty dramas, mysteries, and current affairs shows.
Acorn TV
Content: Specializes in British and international mysteries, crime shows, and dramas (Midsomer Murders, Vera).
Why it’s similar: Ideal for fans of Channel 5’s dramatic and investigative storytelling formats.
BBC First (via Foxtel, Binge, Fetch TV)
Content: Premieres high-quality UK dramas and thrillers like Line of Duty, Luther, and Doctor Foster.
Why it’s similar: While a bit more premium, it offers strong British narrative programming.
SBS On Demand
Content: Free streaming service with a variety of UK documentaries, dramas, and reality content.
Why it’s similar: Great for fans of Channel 5 documentaries and current affairs without a subscription.
What to Watch on Channel 5?
Channel 5 massive catalogue will let you stream:
- Dexter
- Pillars of The Earth
- Ted Lasso
- The Arrangement
- Noggin the Nog
- Lie With Me
- The White Lotus
- The Handmaid’s Tale
- Crossing Lines
- Noggin the Nog
- Old Bear Stories
- Bad Mothers
- Anne Boleyn
- Manifest
What are the common troubleshooting issues when watching Channel 5 (My5) in Australia in 2025?
The 5 most common issues are: geo-blocking errors, playback problems, app crashes, device compatibility, and login issues.
Geo-blocking Errors
- Issue: Channel 5’s official streaming service, My5, is only available in the UK.
- Solution: Use a reliable VPN to bypass geo-restrictions and access My5 from Australia. Make sure the VPN server is based in the UK and supports streaming.
Playback Errors or Buffering
- Issue: Video may freeze, buffer frequently, or fail to play.
- Solution: Check your internet speed (minimum 5 Mbps for SD, 10+ Mbps for HD), switch to a wired connection, or change your VPN server to a less congested one.
App Crashes or Glitches
- Issue: My5 app may crash or behave erratically on smart TVs or streaming devices.
- Solution: Restart the app or device, ensure the app is updated, or reinstall the app. Clear cache if available.
Device Compatibility Issues
- Issue: Some smart TVs and streaming devices in Australia may not support the My5 app.
- Solution: Use a browser via PC/laptop or cast to TV using Chromecast or Apple AirPlay.
Account or Login Issues
- Issue: Users may encounter sign-in problems or region-based account restrictions.
- Solution: Register using a UK address and access via VPN to maintain consistency with your account region.
FAQs
Is Channel 5 available in Australia?
Channel 5 is not directly available in Australia due to geo-restrictions. However, you can access it using a VPN connected to a UK server.
Is Channel 5 available on Australian streaming services?
Channel 5 (My5) content is not officially available in Australia in 2025. To stream its catalog, including shows like Dexter, The White Lotus, Ted Lasso, and various soaps and documentaries, Australian users have to rely on a VPN.
Is Channel 5 available on Foxtel in Australia in 2025?
No, Foxtel in Australia does not include Channel 5 (My5) programs in its official channel lineup or streaming platforms.
Compare Binge, Stan, and Foxtel for Channel 5 access in Australia?
Binge, Stan, and Foxtel do not contain the Channel 5 catalogue. The only way to access My5 content catalogue is by subscribing to ExpressVPN and connecting to the UK server.
Bottom Line
To watch Channel 5 in Australia, the most reliable method is using a VPN service to access the My5 streaming platform, which is geo-restricted to the UK. By connecting to a UK server through a trusted VPN like ExpressVPN, you can visit the My5 website or use the My5 app, sign up for a free account with a UK postcode, and stream Channel 5 shows at no cost.
