The best investment apps in Australia combine low fees, strong ASIC regulation, and easy access to local and global markets. Top apps allow users to invest in shares, ETFs, and other assets with $0–$10 brokerage, intuitive mobile interfaces, and fast AUD funding via PayID or bank transfer. The right choice depends on whether the focus is low-cost investing, global diversification, or simple long-term portfolio building.
The best investing apps in Australia combine sensible pricing, credible local regulation, and a platform experience that matches the way Australians actually invest. Plus500 stands out for beginners who want a clean app and a simpler market-entry experience, though it is best understood as a CFD-led platform rather than a classic long-term investing app. eToro is a stronger fit for casual investors who want a beginner-friendly interface, broader asset access, and copy investing. CMC Markets is one of the strongest overall fits for Australian users because it combines low-cost ASX investing, CHESS-sponsored holdings, and broad enough market access for most people. IG suits investors who want a more capable all-round platform with wider market depth, while Stake is one of the best simple choices for Australians focused on ASX and US shares with a clean fee structure and CHESS-sponsored local investing.
List of best investing apps in Australia
- Plus500 – Best for beginners who want a simple investing app with a clean interface and easy market access.
- eToro – Best for casual investors who want a beginner-friendly app with copy investing features.
- CMC Markets – Best for low-cost ASX investing and strong all-round market access.
- IG – Best for investors who want a broad market range and more advanced platform tools.
- Stake – Best for Australians who want simple access to ASX and US shares with CHESS-sponsored local investing.
Compare the best investment apps in Australia
The best investing apps in Australia differ most in pricing, market access, platform depth, and the way they handle regulation and investor protection. The table below compares the eight platforms on the factors that usually matter most for Australian investors: how much you need to start, what you can actually invest in, what the core fee structure looks like, how you can access the platform, and whether the setup is built around ASIC regulation, CHESS sponsorship, or a more app-led custody model.
What makes an investing app “best” in Australia?
The best investing apps in Australia tend to get a few core things right: they keep costs understandable, offer sensible access to the markets Australians actually use, and sit inside a credible local regulatory setup. The stronger platforms also make a clear distinction between real investing and CFD trading, which matters more here than many beginners realise. In Australia, that usually means looking at ASIC oversight, whether ASX shares are CHESS-sponsored, and how visible the total cost of investing really is.
The main qualities that matter most are:
- Strong regulation and clear investor safeguards: The better apps operate through properly licensed Australian entities and explain how client money and account structures work. For ASX investors, CHESS-sponsored holdings can be a meaningful advantage because they are recorded under the investor’s own HIN.
- Transparent, competitive investing costs: Good platforms make brokerage, FX charges, and inactivity or withdrawal fees easy to understand. They also do not hide the fact that products like ETFs still carry internal management costs, even when brokerage looks cheap or free.
- Access to the markets Australians actually want: For most users, that means a practical mix of ASX shares, ETFs, and at least some US or global market access. The strongest apps give you that without forcing you into a product set built mainly around leverage or speculation.
- A platform that matches your skill level: Some apps are better for beginners who want a clean, low-friction experience, while others suit investors who want deeper charting, screening, multi-currency support, or wider global access. The best choice is not always the broadest platform. It is the one that fits how you actually invest.
- A clean distinction between investing and trading: In Australia, some apps are built for direct share and ETF investing, while others are much more focused on CFDs. That is not a small difference. It affects ownership, risk, and how suitable the platform is for long-term investing. ASIC has also repeatedly warned about risks around online investing and high-risk products, which makes this distinction even more important.
The apps featured in this guide stand out because they perform well across these criteria in different ways. Some are stronger on low-cost ASX investing, some on copy investing or mobile usability, and others on global market access. That is why the “best” investing app in Australia is rarely one-size-fits-all.
Plus500 – Best for beginners who want a simple investing app with a clean interface
Plus500 is one of the more straightforward app-led options in this list, but in Australia it makes more sense as a CFD platform than a traditional long-term investing app. It suits users who want a clean interface, quick setup, and access to multiple markets through CFDs, rather than direct CHESS-sponsored share ownership. It is offered in Australia through Plus500AU Pty Ltd, regulated by ASIC under AFSL 417727.
Plus500’s Australian setup is clear on regulation. Australian clients are onboarded through Plus500AU Pty Ltd, which is regulated by ASIC under AFSL 417727. Client money is held in segregated accounts under Australian client-money rules, which is one of the main protections here.
Two limits matter here:
- This is mainly a CFD platform, so you are usually trading price exposure rather than owning the underlying share or ETF directly.
- The protection focus is on regulatory oversight and client-money handling, not on covering normal market losses from trading.
Plus500’s cost structure is simple on paper, but you still need to know where the real costs sit. The platform says it makes most of its money through the spread, so you usually do not pay a separate dealing commission. That sounds clean, but with frequent trading the spread still becomes your main cost.
The main costs to watch are:
- Spread-based pricing instead of a standard dealing commission
- Overnight funding on CFD positions held past the cut-off time
- A currency conversion fee of up to 0.7%
- An inactivity fee of about A$16 per month after 3 months without logging in
That pricing setup is usually easier for beginners to understand than a multi-layer brokerage model, but it is not automatically cheap if you hold positions for longer periods or trade often.
In Australia, Plus500 is best understood as a multi-market CFD app rather than a traditional investing app for building a direct share portfolio. You can access a broad range of markets through CFDs, including:
- Share CFDs
- ETF CFDs
- Index CFDs
- Commodity CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- Options CFDs in selected cases
That gives the platform broad market coverage, but it also means it is not the right fit if your priority is direct ownership, CHESS sponsorship, or a simple buy-and-hold share investing setup.
Plus500 is most suitable for users who want a clean interface, simple order flow, and quick access to multiple markets without having to learn a more technical desktop platform. That is a real strength. The app is easier to get around than many advanced trading platforms, and the demo account lowers the learning curve.
It is generally a better fit for:
- Beginners who want a simple app layout
- Users focused on shorter-term market exposure
- Traders who want to move across shares, commodities, forex, and indices from one account
It is less suitable for:
- Long-term investors who want direct asset ownership
- Australians looking for CHESS-sponsored ASX investing
- Advanced traders who want deeper platform customisation or broader research tools
eToro – Best for casual investors who want a beginner-friendly app with copy investing features
eToro is one of the easier investing apps to understand at first glance, which is a big part of its appeal in Australia. It works best for casual investors who want a simple mobile experience, access to Australian and global assets, and the option to use copy investing rather than building everything from scratch themselves. In Australia, it operates through eToro AUS Capital Limited, which is regulated by ASIC under AFSL 491139.
eToro’s Australian setup is clearly local. Australian clients use eToro AUS Capital Limited, which is regulated by ASIC under AFSL 491139. The main protection here is the standard Australian client-money framework rather than a broker-failure compensation scheme like you might see in some other jurisdictions.
eToro’s AUD account page also says client money is held in a designated client money trust account with a regulated Australian bank and kept separate from eToro’s own funds.
Two limits matter here:
- Protection is about client-money handling and regulatory oversight, not shielding you from normal market losses.
- eToro in Australia is a multi-asset platform, so protections can differ by product type, especially between real assets and CFDs.
That makes eToro reasonably well structured for Australian retail investors, but it is still important to understand what you are actually buying on the platform rather than assuming every asset type is protected in the same way.
eToro’s fee structure is clean in some places and less clean in others. On the positive side, the Australian site says you can use an AUD account with 0% FX fees on Aussie stocks, and the platform promotes investing in stocks and ETFs with low visible fees.
The main friction points are usually crypto pricing, withdrawal fees in some account setups, and inactivity charges if you stop using the account.
The main costs to watch are:
- 0% FX fees on Aussie stocks when using the AUD account
- Crypto pricing is typically around 1% on buy and 1% on sell
- A withdrawal fee of $5 can apply
- An inactivity fee applies after 12 months with no login activity
For Australian investors, the newer AUD account improves the cost story quite a bit for local shares. The weaker part of the pricing still tends to be crypto and some non-trading fees, especially if you are not using the platform actively.
eToro’s appeal in Australia is that it gives you a broad, app-friendly way to invest across multiple asset classes from one place. Its Australian investing pages highlight access to 6,000+ assets, including Australian and international stocks, ETFs, crypto, and CFDs, while its market pages also show broader exposure across commodities, indices, and currencies.
That usually means access to:
- Australian shares
- International shares
- ETFs
- Cryptoassets
- CFDs across several markets
- CopyTrader for social investing exposure
That product mix is one of eToro’s biggest strengths. It is not the most Australia-specific investing app in the list, but it is one of the easier ways to get broad market exposure without managing several different platforms.
eToro is best suited to beginners and casual investors who value a simple app, broad market access, and social features. The platform is easy to navigate, the demo account is genuinely useful, and CopyTrader gives less experienced users a way to follow other investors without building everything manually from scratch.
That is a real advantage, although it can also encourage people to copy strategies they do not fully understand.
It is generally a better fit for:
- Beginners who want a simple investing app
- Investors interested in copy investing
- Users who want stocks, ETFs, crypto, and CFDs in one place
- Casual investors who value app usability over platform depth
It is less suitable for:
- Investors who want CHESS-sponsored ASX ownership
- Cost-focused traders who care a lot about crypto fees
- More advanced users who want deeper research tools or a more traditional brokerage setup
Overall, eToro works best as a broad, beginner-friendly investing app rather than a pure Australian stockbroker. That is why it fits this article, but also why it should be framed carefully.
CMC Markets – Best for low-cost ASX investing and strong all-round market access
CMC Markets is one of the strongest natural fits for this keyword in Australia because its CMC Invest app is built around exactly what many local investors want: low-cost ASX access, CHESS-sponsored holdings for Australian shares, and broad access to overseas markets from the same account. It is a more convincing fit for mainstream investing than a CFD-first app, especially if you want to buy shares and ETFs rather than just trade price movements.
CMC Markets is one of the stronger local names in this list when it comes to Australian market fit. For investing, the key point is that CMC Markets Stockbroking Limited is regulated by ASIC under AFSL 246381, and Australian shares can be held on a CHESS-sponsored basis. That matters because it gives you a more traditional Australian investing setup than a purely custodial or CFD-led app.
Two important protections stand out:
- ASIC-regulated Australian stockbroking entity
- CHESS sponsorship for eligible ASX shares rather than a purely omnibus custody model
That does not remove market risk, of course, but it does make CMC feel more like a proper long-term investing platform for Australians rather than just a trading app with investing added on.
CMC Markets is one of the easiest platforms in this list to justify on pricing because the headline costs are genuinely competitive for Australian investors. The standout feature is A$0 brokerage on the first ASX buy order under A$1,000 per stock per day, while standard ASX pricing is A$11 or 0.10%, whichever is greater.
For international shares and ETFs, CMC also advertises A$0 brokerage on several major overseas markets, though other market charges and product-level costs can still apply.
The main costs to watch are:
- A$0 on first ASX buy orders under A$1,000 per stock per day
- Standard ASX pricing of A$11 or 0.10%
- A$0 brokerage on selected international markets
- ETF management fees still apply inside the fund itself
- A$0 inactivity fee on the pricing page reviewed
That pricing structure is a big reason CMC ranks so well locally. It is especially attractive for regular ASX investors who want low visible costs without dropping into a micro-investing-only app.
CMC Markets gives Australian investors a broader real-investing product set than many app-first rivals. Through CMC Invest, you can access Australian and international shares, ETFs, and options, with the platform highlighting access to 45,000+ shares and ETFs across the ASX and 15 international markets.
That usually means access to:
- ASX-listed shares
- Australian and international ETFs
- International shares across 15 markets
- Options on the investing side
This is one of the reasons CMC fits the keyword so naturally in Australia. It covers the core things many local users actually mean when they search for an investing app: buying shares, building ETF exposure, and investing across both local and global markets.
CMC Markets is one of the more flexible options in this list because it can work for both newer investors and more experienced users. Beginners can use it for straightforward share and ETF investing, while more engaged investors get a wider market range, better research depth, and more serious platform tools than many simplified mobile-only apps.
It is generally a better fit for:
- Investors focused on ASX shares and ETFs
- Australians who want CHESS-sponsored holdings
- Users who want low visible brokerage
- Investors who may later want broader global market access
It is less suitable for:
- Users who want the absolute simplest beginner app possible
- Investors looking for micro-investing or round-up style automation
- People who only want a social or copy-trading experience
Overall, CMC strikes a strong balance. It is not the flashiest app in the list, but it is one of the most convincing all-round investing fits for Australian users.
IG – Best for investors who want a broad market range and advanced platform tools
IG is a stronger fit for Australians who want more than a basic investing app. Its share trading offer gives you access to Australian and international shares and ETFs, while the wider IG ecosystem also includes more advanced tools than you usually get from simpler app-first platforms. That makes it more appealing to users who want room to grow, not just a stripped-back beginner experience. In Australia, the platform is operated by IG Australia Pty Ltd, which holds AFSL 515106.
IG has a properly established Australian setup. Local clients use IG Australia Pty Ltd, which is regulated by ASIC under AFSL 515106. For investing, IG’s share trading offer is built around real shares and ETFs, not just leveraged trading products, which makes the platform more credible for mainstream investors than many people assume.
Two points matter most here:
- ASIC regulation through IG Australia Pty Ltd
- Real ownership of shares and ETFs on the share trading side, not only derivative exposure
That does not protect you from normal market losses, but it does mean the investing product sits inside a regulated Australian framework rather than a loosely positioned offshore setup.
IG’s pricing is more competitive than many Australians expect. On the share trading account, IG advertises A$0 commission on Australian and international shares, with a 0.7% FX fee applying to international trades. That makes the headline cost structure look very clean, although overseas investing still carries conversion friction through that FX charge.
The main costs to watch are:
- A$0 commission on Australian shares
- A$0 commission on international shares
- 0.7% FX fee on international trades
- ETF fund fees still apply inside the product itself
For Australians investing mostly in domestic shares and ETFs, that is fairly straightforward pricing. If you invest internationally more often, the FX layer becomes the main cost to keep an eye on.
IG’s investing offer is broader than a basic ASX-only app. Through its share trading account, you can buy Australian and international shares and ETFs, while the wider IG platform also includes more advanced trading products for users who want them. That broader ecosystem is one of IG’s main strengths.
That usually means access to:
- Australian shares
- International shares
- Australian and international ETFs
- A wider multi-product platform beyond core investing
So while IG is not the most stripped-back investing app in the market, it does give Australian users more room to expand without switching platforms later.
IG is best suited to investors who want something more capable than a very basic app. The share trading side is simple enough for many regular investors, but the wider platform, tools, and product range make it especially appealing to users who expect to become more active or more global over time.
It is generally a better fit for:
- Investors who want Australian and global market access
- Users who value stronger platform depth
- People who may later want more advanced tools beyond basic share investing
It is less suitable for:
- Users who want the absolute simplest beginner app
- Investors focused only on low-friction ASX buying
- People who prefer a social or copy-investing experience
In practice, IG is one of the better “grow into it” platforms in this list. It is not the lightest app here, but it is one of the more flexible ones.
Stake – Best for Australians who want simple access to ASX and US shares
Stake is one of the most natural fits for this keyword in Australia because it is built around the two things many local investors actually want from an investing app: simple ASX access and straightforward US share investing. It is especially appealing if you want CHESS-sponsored Australian holdings, a clean mobile experience, and low, easy-to-understand brokerage rather than a more layered fee model. Stake also positions itself clearly as a real investing platform, not just a trading app.
Stake has a clearly local Australian setup. Stakeshop Pty Ltd, trading as Stake, is an Authorised Representative (No. 1241398) of Stakeshop AFSL Pty Ltd, which holds AFSL 548196.
For Australian share investing, one of the biggest protection points is that eligible ASX holdings are CHESS-sponsored, which means they are held in your own name under your HIN rather than through a pooled custodial structure.
Two protections matter most here:
- Australian regulatory oversight through the local AFSL structure
- CHESS sponsorship for eligible ASX shares, with holdings in your own name
That makes Stake feel much more like a proper Australian investing app than a trading-led platform dressed up as one. It does not remove investment risk, of course, but the ownership model is one of the reasons Stake fits this keyword so naturally.
Stake’s pricing is one of its clearest strengths because it is easy to understand. The platform charges A$3 on trades up to A$30,000 across both the ASX and Wall St side, and for US investing it applies a flat 55 bps FX fee only when you convert money to or from USD. In other words, you are not paying FX again every time you trade US stocks once the funds are already converted.
The main costs to watch are:
- A$3 brokerage on trades up to A$30,000
- 55 bps FX fee when converting to or from USD
- Optional premium plan pricing from about A$17 per month if you want extra features
For regular investors, that is a much cleaner fee structure than platforms that layer on wider spreads, inactivity charges, or harder-to-read commission schedules. The main thing to watch is the FX cost if you expect to move money in and out of US assets often.
Stake is built around straightforward equity investing rather than trying to be everything at once. The platform highlights access to 2,500+ ASX stocks across 77 industries, plus 9,500+ US stocks, with ETFs included as part of that broader market access. It also says investors can access more than 12,000 securities across its Australian and Wall St offering.
That usually means access to:
- ASX shares
- US stocks
- ETFs
- Some additional listed securities such as government bonds, hybrids, and certain OTC stocks
That is a strong fit for mainstream investors. Stake is not trying to be a derivatives-heavy platform here. It is much more about simple, direct access to the share market in Australia and the US.
Stake is a very good fit for beginners and regular self-directed investors because the platform is clean, the fee structure is easy to follow, and the product set is focused on the things many people actually use. At the same time, it is not so basic that you outgrow it immediately, especially if your strategy is built around ASX and US shares rather than more complex trading products.
It is generally a better fit for:
- Australians who want CHESS-sponsored ASX investing
- Investors who want simple access to ASX and US shares
- Users who prefer flat, visible brokerage over more layered pricing
It is less suitable for:
- Investors who want broad access to many international exchanges
- Users looking for copy investing, robo features, or passive round-up investing
- Traders who want a more advanced multi-asset platform
Overall, Stake gets the basics right. It is not the broadest platform in the list, but for Australians who want a simple, credible way to invest in local and US shares, it is one of the strongest fits.
Webull – Best for mobile-first investors who want strong app usability and market data
Webull is one of the more compelling additions to this list because it fits the Australian market surprisingly well. It combines a slick, mobile-first experience with CHESS-sponsored Australian investing, $0 brokerage on Australian and US ETFs, and relatively low pricing on regular share trades. That makes it more than just a flashy trading app. For Australians who care about app usability but still want a proper investing setup, it is a credible option.
Webull has a clear local regulatory setup. Webull Securities (Australia) Pty Ltd is regulated by ASIC under AFSL 536980, and the platform says all Australian trades are CHESS-sponsored. That is an important point because it means Australian-listed holdings are recorded through the local market settlement system rather than sitting in a purely pooled custody structure.
Two protections matter most here:
- ASIC regulation through Webull Securities (Australia) Pty Ltd
- CHESS-sponsored Australian trades for local share ownership structure
That does not protect you from market losses, but it does make Webull more credible for real investing in Australia than many people initially assume from the app-first branding alone.
Webull’s pricing is one of its biggest selling points in Australia. On the official pricing page, it shows A$0.0003 x trade value for Australian stocks with a minimum of A$1, while Australian and US ETFs have waived commission. That is genuinely competitive, especially for smaller investors or ETF-focused users.
The main costs to watch are:
- Australian stocks: from A$1 minimum commission
- Australian ETFs: A$0 brokerage
- US ETFs: A$0 brokerage
- Other regulatory and FX fees can still apply depending on the trade
That is a very attractive setup if you mainly invest in ETFs or make smaller equity trades. The key thing is not to confuse $0 ETF brokerage with completely cost-free investing, because product-level ETF fees and other market charges still exist in the background.
Webull’s Australian offer is broader than it first appears. The platform says users can trade and invest in assets from Australia, the US, and Hong Kong, and it highlights access to stocks, ETFs, options, and warrants. For the Australian market specifically, it says you can trade over 3,000 shares, ETFs, and warrants across ASX and Cboe.
That usually means access to:
- Australian stocks
- US stocks
- Australian and US ETFs
- Options
- Warrants
- Some access beyond Australia, including Hong Kong markets
That gives Webull more depth than a lot of lightweight investing apps. It still feels mobile-led, but the actual market access is stronger than the design alone might suggest.
Webull is best suited to investors who want a modern app, low visible costs, and better built-in tools than many basic investing platforms offer. The platform itself says it is designed for both beginners and more experienced traders, and the inclusion of screeners, charting, analyst ratings, and third-party analysis gives it more depth than a stripped-back beginner app.
It is generally a better fit for:
- Investors who want a mobile-first experience
- Users focused on low-cost ETF investing
- Australians who still want CHESS-sponsored local trades
- Investors who value stronger built-in research tools
It is less suitable for:
- Investors who want the simplest possible beginner experience
- Users who only want long-term ASX investing with no extra platform complexity
- People who prefer a more established traditional broker brand
Overall, Webull sits in an interesting middle ground. It is easier to use than many advanced brokers, but more feature-rich than a lot of simple investing apps. That is a strong combination for Australian users who want low costs without giving up too much functionality.
Interactive Brokers – Best for experienced investors who want global market access at low cost
Interactive Brokers is one of the strongest options in this list for Australians who want serious global reach rather than a simple local investing app. It is especially well suited to experienced investors who care about low trading costs, multi-currency investing, and access to a very wide range of international markets from one account. In Australia, it operates through Interactive Brokers Australia Pty. Ltd., which is regulated by ASIC under AFSL 453554.
Interactive Brokers has a clearly defined Australian setup. Interactive Brokers Australia Pty. Ltd. is regulated by ASIC under AFSL 453554, and the firm is listed as a participant of ASX, ASX 24, and Cboe Australia.
Two points matter most here:
- ASIC regulation through the local Australian entity
- A well-established broker structure with direct participation in major Australian markets
That does not protect you from normal investment losses, but it does mean the account sits inside a properly regulated local framework rather than a loosely positioned offshore app model.
Interactive Brokers is strongest on cost efficiency for investors who actually use its global capabilities. On IBKR GlobalTrader, Australian stocks and ETFs are priced at 0.08% of trade value with a minimum of A$6, while US stocks and ETFs are priced at USD 0.005 per share with a minimum of USD 1.00. The same pricing page also states no account minimums or platform fees.
The main costs to watch are:
- Australian stocks and ETFs: 0.08%, minimum A$6
- US stocks and ETFs: USD 0.005 per share, minimum USD 1.00
- FX auto conversion at 3 basis points of trade value
- Free deposits
- Free wire withdrawal once a month, then A$15
- Position transfers out: A$50
So the pricing is genuinely strong, but it is best appreciated by investors who trade internationally, use multiple currencies, or want institutional-style cost efficiency rather than ultra-simple flat-fee pricing.
This is where Interactive Brokers stands out most clearly. The Australian site says clients can trade stocks, options, futures, currencies, bonds and more on 170 global markets from a single platform, and fund accounts in 29 currencies.
That usually means access to:
- Australian and international stocks
- ETFs
- Options
- Futures
- Currencies
- Bonds
That range is far broader than a typical investing app in Australia. It is one of the few platforms in this list that genuinely feels built for investors who want one account for almost everything, not just ASX shares plus a few overseas stocks.
Interactive Brokers is best suited to experienced investors, active global investors, and anyone who wants serious control over costs, currencies, and market access. The platform itself positions its tools for investors ranging from beginner to advanced, across mobile, web, and desktop, but the overall ecosystem is still more demanding than a simple app-first broker.
It is generally a better fit for:
- Investors who want global market access
- Users who care about low FX friction
- More experienced investors who want broader instruments and stronger tools
- Investors comfortable with a more detailed platform setup
It is less suitable for:
- Beginners who want the simplest possible app
- Australians who only want low-friction ASX investing
- Users who prefer a cleaner, more guided retail experience
In practice, Interactive Brokers is one of the strongest platforms here on substance, but not on simplicity. That is exactly why it suits experienced investors better than casual first-timers.
moomoo – Best for data-rich app-based investing and active share market research
moomoo is one of the stronger app-led options in this list for Australians who want more than just basic buy-and-sell functionality. It combines CHESS-sponsored ASX investing with low visible pricing, broad market access, and a much deeper set of charts, screeners, and market tools than most lightweight investing apps. That makes it a better fit for investors who like doing their own research rather than just placing the occasional simple order.
moomoo has a clear Australian regulatory setup. In Australia, it operates through Moomoo Securities Australia Ltd, which is regulated by ASIC under AFSL 224663. For local share investing, one of the more important protection points is that ASX holdings are CHESS-sponsored, which means those shares are registered in your own name through CHESS rather than sitting only in a pooled custody structure.
Two protections matter most here:
- ASIC regulation through the local Australian entity
- CHESS-sponsored ownership for eligible ASX shares
That does not protect you from market losses, but it does make moomoo a more serious investing setup than its app-first look might suggest. In Australian terms, it is not just a flashy trading interface with weak local footing.
moomoo is one of the sharper low-cost options in this list, but the fee story is a bit more nuanced than just “cheap”. On its Australia pricing pages, it advertises ASX trades from A$3 or 0.03% per order, and Finder’s Australia review also cites US trades from US$0.99. On top of that, moomoo says it charges A$0 subscription fees and A$0 inactivity fees.
The main costs to watch are:
- ASX trades from A$3 or 0.03%
- US trades from about A$1.55 (~) per order
- A$0 subscription fee
- A$0 inactivity fee
That is a strong cost profile for active app users, especially if you want low visible brokerage without stepping up to a more institutional-style platform. You still need to remember that ETF management fees and normal market-related charges can exist at the product level, even when brokerage looks low.
moomoo’s market access is broader than a standard beginner investing app. Its Australian site says users can access over 26,000 stocks and ETFs across the US, Australian, and Hong Kong markets, while its investing pages also highlight US options and a broad ASX lineup. Finder’s local review also describes it as covering Australian shares, US shares, Hong Kong shares, ETFs, and options.
That usually means access to:
- ASX shares
- US shares
- Hong Kong shares
- ETFs
- US options
That gives moomoo a noticeably broader product set than a lot of lightweight investing apps in Australia. It is still app-led, but not narrow.
moomoo is best suited to investors who want a more data-rich app and are comfortable with a busier interface. It is a stronger fit for users who like charts, screeners, technical tools, and doing their own market research, rather than people who just want the cleanest possible long-term ETF app.
At the same time, features like paper trading and recurring investments from $10 make it more flexible than a pure active-trader platform.
It is generally a better fit for:
- Investors who want stronger research and charting
- Users interested in ASX, US, and Hong Kong markets
- People who want low visible brokerage with more tools than a basic app
- Investors comfortable with a slightly more feature-heavy experience
It is less suitable for:
- Beginners who want the simplest possible interface
- Investors who only want a plain, long-term buy-and-hold app
- Users who prefer a more traditional broker feel over a data-heavy app layout
Overall, moomoo sits in a useful middle ground. It is cheaper and more app-friendly than many advanced brokers, but more analytical and feature-rich than most casual investing apps.
Are investing apps in Australia safe?
Investing apps in Australia are generally safe when they operate through a properly licensed Australian entity, but safety depends on how the platform is regulated, how your assets are held, and what product you are actually using. That last point matters. A platform built for direct share and ETF investing is not the same thing as a CFD platform, even if both are available through a mobile app.
Strong regulatory oversight matters
In Australia, reputable investing apps typically operate under an Australian Financial Services Licence and are supervised by ASIC. Where a platform holds client money, Australian rules generally require that money to be kept in a client money account operated as a trust account, with record-keeping, reconciliation, and reporting obligations applying under ASIC’s client money rules.
For ASX investing, another important layer is CHESS sponsorship. ASX explains that CHESS-sponsored holdings sit on the CHESS subregister and require a formal sponsorship agreement with your broker, which is one reason many Australian investors see CHESS as a meaningful ownership safeguard.
Investor protection in Australia: what that really means
Safety in Australia depends a lot on the holding structure:
- CHESS-sponsored holdings are connected to your own HIN, which links you directly to those holdings on the CHESS subregister.
- Some providers instead use a custodial or omnibus model, where client assets are pooled under a custodian structure rather than held directly under your own HIN. ASIC has noted that some online trading providers use omnibus HIN arrangements to hold client assets.
- Client money rules are about how funds are handled and segregated. They are not insurance against normal market losses.
That distinction is important because Australian investors sometimes treat “ASIC-regulated” as if it means the investment itself is protected. It does not. Regulation reduces operational and misconduct risk, but it does not stop you losing money in the market.
Platform risk is different from market risk
Even on a properly regulated app, investing still carries normal market risk. Share prices can fall, ETFs can lose value, and higher-risk products such as CFDs bring an extra layer of complexity and risk beyond standard buy-and-hold investing. ASIC’s review of online trading providers also highlighted risks around online trading models and how assets are structured and held.
How to judge whether an investing app is safe in Australia
An investing app is generally safer when it:
- is operated by an ASIC-regulated Australian entity,
- clearly explains how your cash is held,
- makes it obvious whether your ASX holdings are CHESS-sponsored or custodial,
- discloses all major fees, risks, and product structures clearly,
- and avoids blurring the line between real investing and leveraged trading products.
Australia has a strong regulatory framework for retail investing, and many well-known providers offer a high level of operational safety. But the level of protection still varies by structure and product. The safest approach is to use an ASIC-regulated platform, understand whether your holdings are CHESS-sponsored or custodial, and be clear about whether you are investing in real assets or trading something more complex.
Methodology: How we score the best investing apps in Australia
Each investing app in this guide is assessed using a consistent comparison framework designed to keep the scoring fair, practical, and transparent. The goal is not to reward the platform with the biggest marketing presence. It is to identify which apps are most useful for real Australian investors based on cost, market access, safety, usability, and overall fit. This follows Invezz’s people-first, answer-first approach to comparison content, with a strong emphasis on factual accuracy, neutrality, and user decision-making.
The review process combines:
- direct review of official pricing pages and product disclosures,
- checks of regulatory and licensing information,
- comparison of market access, account structure, and platform features,
- and side-by-side evaluation of the things that most affect investor outcomes, such as fees, platform usability, and protection structure.
The scoring framework focuses on eight core categories:
| Scoring category | What we assess |
|---|---|
| Investing options | How users can invest, including long-term investing, ETF investing, share dealing, global investing, recurring investing, and whether the platform also leans heavily toward CFD trading or more direct ownership. |
| Products, markets, and assets | The range of investments available, such as ASX shares, US shares, ETFs, options, crypto, and broader global market access where relevant. |
| Platforms and usability | Ease of use, app design, order flow, speed, stability, and how well the platform works across mobile, web, and desktop where offered. |
| Safety and reliability | Regulatory oversight, local operating structure, account protections, CHESS sponsorship where relevant, and overall trustworthiness. |
| Deposits and withdrawals | Funding methods, account setup friction, withdrawal process, transfer clarity, and whether extra fees or avoidable barriers apply. |
| Fees and costs | Brokerage, FX charges, fund costs, inactivity fees, withdrawal fees, and whether pricing is clear enough for ordinary investors to understand. |
| Research and analysis tools | Charting, screeners, market data, watchlists, analyst tools, news flow, and other decision-support features. |
| Education and learning resources | Help content, explainers, demo tools, tutorials, and how well the platform supports less experienced investors. |
Each category is scored on a 0 to 5 scale. Those scores are then weighted based on how important they are for a typical investing-app comparison, with areas like safety, costs, market access, and platform usability carrying more influence than lighter secondary features. The weighted results are then combined into the overall view of each platform.
This is also why not every platform in the list serves the same type of investor. Some score more strongly for low-cost ASX investing, others for copy investing, mobile usability, or global market access. Invezz’s aim is not to force a single winner for everyone, but to show which investing app is likely to be the best fit for different users in Australia.
How to pick the right investment for you in Australia
Choosing the right investing app in Australia is mostly about matching the platform to how you actually invest, not just picking the app with the lowest headline fee. Some platforms are built for direct ASX and ETF investing, some are better for global markets, and some lean more toward CFDs or app-led features like copy investing. The right choice usually becomes clearer once you narrow down your goals, your preferred markets, and how much complexity you are comfortable with.
Start with what you actually want to invest in
In Australia, “investing app” can mean very different things in practice. For some users, it means buying ASX shares and ETFs for the long term. For others, it means investing in US stocks, building a global portfolio, or using a broader multi-asset app. That is the first distinction to get right, because a platform designed mainly for CFDs is not the same thing as one built for direct share ownership.
A simple way to think about it is:
- choose a more traditional investing app if you want shares and ETFs
- choose a broader platform if you want international markets
- be cautious with apps where the experience is built mainly around trading exposure rather than ownership
That one decision usually narrows the field faster than comparing branding or app-store screenshots.
Check regulation and holding structure early
In Australia, a good investing app should have a clear local regulatory setup and make it obvious how your holdings are structured. For ASX investors, one of the biggest questions is whether holdings are CHESS-sponsored. ASX says CHESS-sponsored holdings require a formal sponsorship agreement with a broker, and Moneysmart notes that all shares bought through that broker are connected to your HIN.
That does not automatically make every CHESS-sponsored app “better” for every investor, but it is often an important plus if you want a more traditional Australian ownership structure.
Compare real costs, not just the headline brokerage
Australian investors often focus first on whether brokerage is A$0, A$3, or A$11, but that is only part of the cost story. Moneysmart notes that when you buy and sell ETFs through a broker, you still pay brokerage, and ETF product documents set out the underlying fees and costs inside the fund.
When comparing investing apps, look at:
- brokerage on ASX and overseas trades
- FX fees on international investing
- any withdrawal or inactivity fees
- underlying ETF or fund costs where relevant
For regular ASX investors, visible brokerage may matter most. For global investors, FX fees can end up being the bigger drag over time.
Match the platform to your experience level
Some investing apps are genuinely easier for beginners. Others give you more tools, but can feel busier than necessary if all you want to do is buy a few ETFs each month. Moneysmart’s guidance on choosing investments also reinforces the idea that investors should focus on the type of investment and the risks they are comfortable with, rather than chasing complexity they do not need.
Beginner-friendly platforms usually work best when they offer:
- a clean app and simple order flow
- clear fee explanations
- straightforward funding and account setup
- enough support or guidance to avoid common mistakes
More advanced investors tend to benefit from:
- stronger charting and screeners
- more international access
- multi-currency support
- a platform with room to grow
Think about whether you want local simplicity or global reach
This is one of the biggest trade-offs in the Australian market. Some apps are excellent for simple ASX and ETF investing, while others are better if you want US shares, broader international access, or a more sophisticated platform over time. There is no universal right answer here. The better choice depends on whether your priority is ease, ownership structure, cost control, or global flexibility.
Use these shortcuts to narrow it down
If your priority is low-cost ASX investing with a stronger long-term investing fit
- CMC Markets is one of the strongest options because it combines competitive ASX pricing with CHESS-sponsored investing and broad enough market access for most Australian users.
If you want simple ASX and US share investing with a clean fee structure
- Stake is one of the most natural fits, especially if you want CHESS-sponsored ASX investing and easy access to Wall St from the same app.
If you want a beginner-friendly app with copy investing features
- eToro makes the most sense when you want a broader app-led experience and value copy investing more than CHESS-sponsored local share ownership.
If you want more tools and wider market depth from one ecosystem
- IG is the stronger fit for investors who want more than a basic app and expect to grow into a broader platform.
If you want global market access at low cost
- Interactive Brokers is the strongest choice in this list for experienced investors who care about international reach, multi-currency investing, and lower friction on global trading.
If you want a mobile-first app with low-cost ETF access and stronger built-in tools
- Webull is a good fit, especially for users who want a sharper app experience without giving up too much investing functionality.
If you want a data-rich research-driven app
- Moomoo makes more sense for investors who like screeners, charting, and broader research features, rather than the simplest possible interface.
If you want a simple app but are comfortable with a CFD-led model
- Plus500 can make sense for that use case, but it should be approached as a CFD platform, not as a classic long-term share investing app.
The easiest way to avoid choosing badly is to decide first whether you want CHESS-sponsored ASX investing, global shares, copy investing, or a CFD-led app. Once that is clear, most of the weaker options fall away quite quickly.
How to open an investing account in Australia
Opening an investing account in Australia is usually straightforward, but there are still a few local details that matter, especially around broker choice, identity checks, and whether your ASX holdings will be linked to a HIN through a CHESS-sponsored broker. For most people, the process is fully online and can be completed from your phone or laptop, but it is still worth checking the account structure before you open anything.
Step 1: Choose the type of investing app you want
Before opening an account, decide whether you want a platform mainly for ASX shares and ETFs, a broader app for global investing, or something more trading-led. In Australia, the most common way to buy and sell shares is through an online broking service or a full-service broker.
It is also worth checking early whether the broker is CHESS-sponsored. ASX explains that if you hold shares on the CHESS subregister, you are allocated a HIN, and Moneysmart notes that all shares you buy through that broker are connected to that HIN.
Step 2: Complete the online application
Most investing apps in Australia use a digital account-opening process. You will usually be asked for your:
- full legal name,
- residential address,
- date of birth,
- tax residency details,
- and bank account information for funding and withdrawals.
ASIC notes that robust account-opening and client due diligence practices are an important part of preventing fraud in share trading accounts, so these checks are not just admin for the sake of it.
Step 3: Verify your identity
Identity verification is a standard part of opening an investing account in Australia. In practice, brokers typically ask for documents such as a passport or driver licence, and may also ask for supporting details to verify your address or identity electronically. ASIC explicitly highlights the importance of strong client due diligence in account opening, and ASX materials also refer to identity verification when setting up holdings linked to a stockbroker account.
Step 4: Get your HIN or custody setup in place
If you open an account with a CHESS-sponsored broker, your ASX holdings will normally be linked to a HIN. Moneysmart explains that a HIN is issued by the ASX when you become a client of a broker, and ASX explains that a HIN identifies your holdings on the CHESS subregister.
If the provider uses a custodial structure instead, you may not receive your own HIN in the same way. That does not automatically make the account unsafe, but it is an important structural difference to understand before you start investing.
Step 5: Fund the account
Once the account is approved, you can usually fund it using a linked bank account. The exact funding methods vary by broker, but this is normally the point where you connect your cash account or transfer money in so you can start placing orders. Moneysmart’s guidance on buying and selling shares reflects this standard broker-led process for getting started.
Step 6: Review fees, market access, and settings before you place your first order
Before buying anything, it is worth checking:
- brokerage on ASX and overseas trades,
- any FX fees,
- whether you are buying shares, ETFs, or something more complex,
- and whether your holdings are CHESS-sponsored or held another way.
This is where a lot of beginner mistakes happen. The app might look simple, but the costs and structure can still vary a lot from one platform to another. The safer approach is to understand that before your first trade, not after it.
Step 7: Start with a simple first investment
Once the account is open and funded, you can begin investing. For many Australians, that starts with shares or ETFs through an online broker. If your broker is CHESS-sponsored, your holdings will then be tied back to your HIN and reflected through the CHESS system.
Opening an investing account in Australia is not complicated, but it is worth doing properly. Pick a platform that matches your goals, check whether it uses CHESS sponsorship, complete the ID process carefully, and understand the fee structure before you trade. That gives you a much better starting point than choosing an app purely because it looks slick or advertises low brokerage.
FAQs
For most beginners in Australia, eToro and Stake are two of the easiest places to start, but for different reasons. eToro is the simpler fit if you want a very approachable app with copy investing and broad multi-asset access, while Stake is stronger if you want a cleaner long-term investing route focused on ASX and US shares with CHESS-sponsored ASX holdings. CMC Markets is also a strong beginner option if low-cost ASX investing matters most.
Investing apps are digital platforms that let you buy, hold, and manage investments such as shares, ETFs, and in some cases international stocks, options, crypto, or CFDs. In Australia, that distinction matters because some apps are built for direct long-term investing, while others are more focused on broader trading exposure or app-led features like copy investing.
If mobile usability is the priority, Webull and eToro are two of the strongest options in this list. Webull stands out for combining a polished app with stronger charting, screeners, and market tools, while eToro is better if you want a simpler mobile experience with broad investing access and copy features. Stake is also a very strong mobile-first choice for Australians focused on ASX and US shares.
The best investing app depends on what you actually want to do with it. For most Australians, the main things to compare are regulation, holding structure, fees, market access, and whether the app suits your experience level. If you want a more traditional local setup, check whether the broker is CHESS-sponsored. If you want overseas investing, pay close attention to FX fees and international market access. And if the platform is built mainly around CFDs, be clear that this is very different from buying and holding real shares or ETFs.