Netflix has confirmed the end of its Basic plan for Australian users. Many subscribers were surprised to receive emails in early 2025 announcing that the plan would be phased out. Starting April 2025, anyone still using the Basic tier will be moved to a different plan automatically.
This change affects how much users pay and how they experience content on the platform. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Was the Netflix Basic Plan?
The Basic plan was introduced when Netflix launched in Australia in 2015. It was the most affordable ad-free option for nearly a decade. Subscribers paid AU$10.99 per month and received 720p video quality, no advertisements, and the ability to watch on one screen at a time.
While it was simple and budget-friendly, it became outdated as Netflix introduced newer options with better features or lower prices supported by ads.
Why Did Netflix Discontinue the Basic Plan in Australia?
Netflix is making ad-supported streaming a key part of its global revenue strategy. The Basic plan doesn’t fit that direction anymore. The company is moving users toward plans that either cost more or include ads to generate more income per subscriber.
This change aligns with similar decisions in the United States, Canada, and the UK, where Netflix also removed the Basic tier. Reducing the number of active plan types also makes management simpler across regions.
Starting from April 2025, users on the Basic plan will be automatically switched to the Standard with Ads plan. The new plan costs less at AU$7.99 per month. It includes two screens instead of one and increases the video quality to full HD (1080p). However, it also adds ads before and during content. There’s no option to keep the Basic plan.
Can You Still Watch Without Ads?
Yes — but it’ll cost more.
- Netflix still offers two ad-free options:
- Standard (no ads) for AU$16.99/month
- Premium for AU$22.99/month with 4K Ultra HD and four screens
Users who don’t want to see ads can upgrade their subscription in the account settings. The process is quick and available online.
Netflix isn’t the only service pushing ad-supported plans. Disney+, Hulu, and Prime Video have all added similar tiers. Ads are slowly becoming standard in lower-priced streaming packages.
For subscribers, this means more choices — but also more decisions to make about what matters most: cost, quality, or uninterrupted viewing.
Final Note
The Netflix Basic plan in Australia is ending. If you’re using it, your plan will change after April 2025. You’ll move to a lower-priced plan with ads, unless you choose to upgrade.
Make sure to review your account settings before your next billing cycle. Share this update with friends and family who may still be on the Basic plan — they might not know what’s coming.