Cryptocurrency trading has surged in popularity over the past decade, attracting both novice and experienced traders across Australia. With markets operating 24/7 and high volatility creating frequent trading opportunities, many investors are turning to regulated brokers for reliable access to digital assets. Unlike traditional exchanges, crypto brokers often offer leverage, tighter spreads, and enhanced trading tools—making them ideal for active traders.
This guide explores the top 8 Australian cryptocurrency trading brokers, highlighting their unique features, regulatory compliance, platform offerings, and user benefits. Whether you're into day trading, copy trading, or long-term investment strategies, this overview will help you choose the right broker to meet your needs.
Why Trade Crypto With a Broker?
Before diving into the list, it's essential to understand how crypto brokers differ from exchanges and why they may be better suited for certain types of traders.
Key Features of Cryptocurrency Trading
1. Volatility
Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are known for their price swings. For example, Bitcoin rose from under $6,000 to nearly $20,000 within a year during the 2017 bull run. While risky, this volatility creates lucrative short-term trading opportunities—especially for those using leveraged products like CFDs (Contracts for Difference).
2. 24/7 Market Access
Unlike stock markets, crypto never sleeps. Trading is available round-the-clock, seven days a week, allowing Australians to trade after work or during global market hours. However, temporary outages can occur during network upgrades or exchange maintenance.
Brokers vs. Exchanges: What’s the Difference?
While exchanges connect buyers and sellers directly, brokers act as intermediaries, offering their own pricing and often including additional services such as margin trading, educational resources, and customer support.
- Exchanges are ideal for long-term holders who want full ownership of crypto assets.
- Brokers cater to speculative traders who use derivatives like CFDs, enjoy leverage (up to 10:1), and benefit from multiple deposit methods including PayPal and bank transfers.
Moreover, broker withdrawal fees typically range between 0%–3%, compared to some exchanges charging up to 6%.
Now let’s explore the best-regulated crypto brokers operating in Australia.
1. IC Markets
IC Markets stands out as one of the most trusted ASIC-regulated brokers in Australia. It offers access to popular platforms like MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and cTrader, all optimized for crypto trading with ultra-fast execution speeds—averaging under 40 milliseconds.
Traders can access up to 1:5 leverage on major cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin (BTC/USD), Ethereum, Litecoin, and Dash. Spreads start as low as 8 pips on BTC/USD with no commission.
Key Features:
- Regulated by ASIC (Australia) and SFSA (Seychels)
- ECN broker model ensures transparent pricing
- Supports deposits via credit/debit cards, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and Bitcoin
- Multi-currency accounts in AUD, USD, EUR, GBP, and more
- Over 18 language options available
With its robust infrastructure hosted on Equinix NY4 servers, IC Markets is a favorite among algorithmic and high-frequency traders.
2. CMC Markets
CMC Markets is another ASIC-regulated platform known for its competitive spreads and powerful mobile apps designed for iOS and Android devices. The broker supports CFD trading across 18 cryptocurrencies, enabling leveraged positions on both rising and falling prices.
Its automated execution engine delivers trades in under 0.0045 seconds, with a fill rate of 99.9%, minimizing slippage even during volatile conditions.
Why Choose CMC Markets?
- User-friendly interface suitable for beginners
- Advanced charting tools and real-time market data
- No partial fills or dealer intervention
- Ideal for traders focused on technical analysis
👉 See how fast execution and tight spreads boost your trading edge.
3. eToro
eToro revolutionized social trading with its CopyTrader™ feature, allowing users to automatically mirror top-performing investors. With over 20 million users globally, it’s one of the most community-driven platforms.
You can trade major cryptos like Bitcoin and Ethereum via CFDs or buy actual coins (non-leveraged). The platform also offers CopyPortfolios™, AI-powered managed portfolios that bundle top traders into a single investment.
Standout Features:
- Free copy trading—no profit-sharing required
- Social newsfeed lets users interact and share insights
- No deposit fees; $25 withdrawal fee
- Regulated by ASIC, CySEC, and FCA
eToro is perfect for beginners who want to learn by following experienced traders while building diversified portfolios.
4. Interactive Brokers (IBKR)
Interactive Brokers caters to serious investors with its professional-grade tools. It charges a low commission of 0.12%–0.18% per trade with no added markups or hidden fees.
While primarily known for stocks and futures, IBKR now supports crypto futures trading, appealing to advanced traders seeking hedging strategies.
Platform Highlights:
- Powerful desktop (TWS), web, and mobile platforms
- IBoT chatbot for voice-based trading commands
- API access for algorithmic traders
- Award-winning brokerage recognized by Barron’s and Investopedia
IBKR Lite offers zero-commission stock trades, making it accessible to casual investors too.
5. IG
IG is one of Australia’s longest-standing brokers, founded in 1974 and regulated by ASIC. It allows speculation on seven major cryptos using CFDs with leverage.
New traders can practice risk-free with a demo account, while educational content through IG Academy helps build foundational knowledge.
Why Traders Love IG:
- Over 16,000 markets including indices, forex, and commodities
- Offers DMA (Direct Market Access) for experienced traders
- No minimum balance to open an account
- Negative balance protection
IG combines decades of experience with modern technology, making it a reliable choice for all skill levels.
6. ThinkMarkets
Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Australia, ThinkMarkets provides a secure environment with $1 million insurance coverage through Lloyd’s of London.
It offers two account types:
- Standard Account: From 1.2 pips spread
- ThinkZero Account: As low as 0.1 pips with $3.50 per million USD traded commission
Additional Benefits:
- Free VPS hosting for algorithmic traders
- Proprietary ThinkTrader platform with 125+ technical indicators
- Real-time news via FX Wire Pro
- Deposits via POLi, BPay, Skrill, Neteller, and Bitcoin
ThinkMarkets balances innovation with security—ideal for tech-savvy traders.
7. Pepperstone
Pepperstone delivers ultra-low latency execution (as fast as 0.05 ms) and tight spreads starting at 30 pips on BTC/USD. It offers up to 10:1 leverage on crypto CFDs and supports popular platforms like MT4, MT5, cTrader, and WebTrader.
Regulated by ASIC and FCA, Pepperstone safeguards client funds in segregated NAB accounts.
Key Advantages:
- Trusted by over 73,000 traders globally
- Supports social trading via ZuluTrade, Myfxbook, and DupliTrade
- Offers Islamic (swap-free) accounts
- Accepts AUD deposits with no conversion fees
Pepperstone excels in speed and reliability—perfect for scalpers and algo traders.
8. AvaTrade
Established in 2006 and regulated in multiple jurisdictions including Australia (ASIC), AvaTrade emphasizes safety and education.
It offers negative balance protection, ensuring losses cannot exceed deposits—even during extreme volatility.
Notable Features:
- Free Autochartist tool identifies trade setups automatically
- AvaTradeGO mobile app ideal for on-the-go trading
- Supports hedging, scalping, EAs, and OCO orders
- Islamic account option available
With its beginner-friendly resources and multilingual support, AvaTrade is excellent for new entrants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are cryptocurrency brokers legal in Australia?
Yes. ASIC-regulated brokers like IC Markets, Pepperstone, and IG are fully compliant with Australian financial laws and offer investor protections.
Q: Can I own real crypto when trading with these brokers?
Some brokers (like eToro) allow direct ownership of crypto assets without leverage. Others only offer CFDs, which do not involve actual coin ownership but enable leveraged speculation.
Q: Is leverage risky in crypto trading?
Leverage amplifies both gains and losses. While it increases profit potential, it also raises the risk of margin calls. Beginners should start with low leverage or use demo accounts.
Q: Do these brokers charge withdrawal fees?
Most charge minimal fees (e.g., eToro: $25; others: 0%–3%). Always check the broker’s fee schedule before funding your account.
Q: Which broker is best for beginners?
eToro and AvaTrade stand out due to their intuitive platforms, educational content, copy trading features, and demo accounts.
Q: Can I trade crypto on weekends?
Yes—most brokers offer 24/7 crypto trading. However, some (like Pepperstone) may have limited availability on weekends depending on liquidity providers.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right cryptocurrency broker in Australia depends on your experience level, risk tolerance, preferred trading style, and desired features—from leverage and spreads to social copying and mobile functionality.
Top-tier brokers like IC Markets, eToro, Pepperstone, and AvaTrade combine strong regulation with innovative technology, making them ideal partners for navigating the dynamic world of digital asset trading.
Whether you're aiming for quick profits through day trading or building a long-term strategy using AI-driven portfolios, there's a trusted Australian broker ready to support your goals.