With smartphones becoming our go-to device for entertainment, streaming services have transformed how we watch TV, movies, and listen to music. Whether you’re binging your favorite shows on Netflix, catching the latest hit series on Foxtel Play, or curating playlists on Spotify, the world of entertainment is now right in your pocket. Here’s a look at the top streaming services for Australians and what they offer.
1. Netflix: The King of Video Streaming
Netflix has quickly become a household name, offering an extensive library of TV shows, movies, and original content. With its seamless mobile app, it’s perfect for watching on-the-go or kicking back on the couch.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Huge Library: From blockbuster movies to Netflix Originals like Stranger Things and Narcos, there’s a show or movie for every taste.
- High Quality: Netflix’s HD streaming adapts to your internet speed, so you get the best possible quality without buffering.
- Cross-Platform Sync: Start a show on your TV, and continue where you left off on your smartphone without any hassle.
Australian Price:
- Basic plan (SD, 1 screen): AU$8.99/month
- Standard plan (HD, 2 screens): AU$11.99/month
- Premium plan (4K, 4 screens): AU$14.99/month
Best Feature: Netflix Originals and its simple interface make it a must-have for TV lovers and movie buffs.
2. Spotify: The Ultimate Music Streaming Experience
Spotify is a top choice for music lovers in Australia, offering millions of tracks and playlists at your fingertips. Whether you’re into chart-toppers or indie gems, Spotify’s music discovery is unbeatable.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Custom Playlists & Discover Weekly: Spotify curates playlists based on your preferences, helping you find new tracks and artists every week.
- Offline Mode: Download music for offline listening—perfect for when you’re commuting or saving data.
- User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive and clean, making it easy to navigate through tracks, albums, and playlists.
Australian Price:
- Free with ads
- Spotify Premium: AU$11.99/month for ad-free listening, better sound quality, and offline playback.
Best Feature: Discover Weekly, which delivers a new playlist each Monday based on your music tastes.
3. Foxtel Play: Australia’s Homegrown Streaming Service
For those who want premium TV without a cable subscription, Foxtel Play offers a mix of live TV and on-demand content, including exclusive access to shows like Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Premium TV Shows: Foxtel Play has deals with HBO, giving you access to shows like True Detective and Veep.
- Flexible Packages: You can build your subscription around your preferences, whether you’re into drama, sports, or movies.
- Australian Content: It’s not all about international shows—Foxtel Play also has a good selection of Aussie content.
Australian Price:
- Basic package: Starting from AU$25/month
- Additional packs (sports, movies, drama): AU$10–25/month
Best Feature: Access to HBO’s most popular shows without needing a traditional Foxtel box.
4. Pandora: Simple and Effective Music Streaming
Pandora offers a different approach to music streaming, with personalized radio stations that learn your preferences over time. It’s ideal for listeners who prefer curated music without having to manage playlists.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Easy to Use: Start a station based on your favorite song or artist, and Pandora does the rest.
- Personalized Experience: The more you listen and rate songs, the more Pandora tailors your station to your preferences.
- Free Option: Pandora’s free tier is a great way to enjoy music with minimal fuss.
Australian Price:
- Free with ads
- Pandora Plus: AU$5.99/month for ad-free listening and more skips.
Best Feature: Pandora’s simplicity is its strength—just press play and enjoy an endless stream of music based on your tastes.
5. Amazon Prime Video: Great for Movie Lovers (Coming Soon)
While not officially launched in Australia just yet, Amazon Prime Video is making waves elsewhere with a growing library of films, TV shows, and award-winning originals like Transparent.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Original Content: Amazon is investing in high-quality original series that rival other streaming services.
- Offline Viewing: Download movies and shows to watch offline, ideal for when you’re traveling or in areas with limited connectivity.
Australian Price: Expected to match other regions around AU$8–10/month (based on overseas pricing).
Honorable Mentions:
- YouTube: Still a go-to platform for video content, offering everything from music videos to tutorials.
- Apple Music: Offering a vast library and exclusive releases, Apple Music is quickly becoming a contender in the streaming world, priced at AU$11.99/month.
Conclusion
With so many great options, Australians are spoiled for choice when it comes to streaming entertainment. Whether you’re watching your favorite shows on Netflix or discovering new music with Spotify, your smartphone is the ultimate entertainment device. As more services launch and improve their offerings, cutting the cord has never been easier or more enjoyable. Happy streaming!