Common Australian Brokers
Updated October 2025
If you live in Australia — or if you’re living outside Australia but still want to invest in Aussie companies — good news:
Several brokers let you trade Australian shares as a non-resident.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most trusted Australian brokers that accept overseas investors, what makes them different, and how to find the right one for you.
💬 Quick FAQs
Can foreigners invest in the Australian stock market?
Yes. Many Australian brokers let non-residents open trading accounts, provided you complete ID verification and comply with tax regulations.
Do overseas investors pay tax on Australian shares?
Usually only on dividends through a withholding tax (15–30%). Capital gains depend on your residency and tax treaty.
Is it safe to trade through Australian brokers?
Absolutely — provided they’re licensed by ASIC (Australian Securities and Investments Commission). All brokers listed here meet that standard.
What do I need to open an account?
Typically: a passport, proof of overseas address, and a tax identification number from your country of residence.
📍 Jump to a Broker
CMC Markets
A long-time Aussie favourite, now global.
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🌍 Open to: Multiple regions including NZ, UK, and parts of Asia
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💲 Fees: $0 brokerage for the first 10 trades/month (conditions apply)
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💡 Best for: Simplicity and trust — ASIC-regulated, award-winning platform
Stake
Modern, simple, and friendly.
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🌍 Open to: Select countries (check Stake’s eligibility list)
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💲 Fees: Low FX, no inactivity fees
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💡 Best for: Expat Aussies or new international investors who want a quick setup
CommSec International
Australia’s most recognised broker, backed by Commonwealth Bank.
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🌍 Open to: Approved countries (not all supported)
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💲 Fees: Slightly higher, but full-service
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💡 Best for: Those who value brand trust and CBA account integration
NABtrade
The National Australia Bank’s online platform — solid and reputable.
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🌍 Open to: Certain countries with proper ID verification
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💲 Fees: Mid-range
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💡 Best for: Australians abroad wanting to keep NAB banking + investing together
Westpac Online Investing
Westpac’s platform offers a clean experience with deep research tools.
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🌍 Open to: Existing Westpac customers and approved non-residents
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💡 Best for: Those preferring a traditional bank-backed structure
Bell Direct
Highly rated for both local and expat investors.
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💲 Brokerage: Low
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💡 Best for: DIY investors seeking clear charts and quick execution
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🌍 Notes: Supports international verification for expats
SelfWealth
Known for its flat-fee model — and it’s gaining traction overseas.
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💲 Flat fee: $9.50 per trade
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💡 Best for: Cost-conscious investors and expats wanting consistency
OpenMarkets Australia
A broker built for fintechs and professionals.
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💡 Best for: Serious traders using third-party apps (like Sharesight, Marketech, or Stocklight)
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🌍 Note: Accepts overseas investors case-by-case
Macquarie Online Trading
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🌍 Open to: Select countries
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💡 Best for: Investors seeking premium customer service and bank integration
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💲 Fees: Mid-high, but offset by Macquarie’s research depth
Tiger Brokers
An emerging global platform with competitive ASX access.
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🌍 Available in: Asia-Pacific, Europe, and more
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💲 Fees: Among the lowest
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💡 Best for: Tech-savvy, active traders
Moomoo Australia
Bright, modern, and mobile-first.
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🌍 Available in: Australia, Singapore, US, Hong Kong
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💲 Fees: Low trading costs + promos for new sign-ups
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💡 Best for: Younger or mobile-first investors
How to Choose the Right Broker?
🧭 How to Choose the Right Broker?
Think of it like choosing a travel partner.
You don’t want the fanciest — you want the one that fits your style and doesn’t leave you stranded halfway.
Ask yourself:
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Do I need multi-currency accounts or just AUD?
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Will I trade often or occasionally?
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Do I prefer a global platform or a familiar Australian brand?
The right broker will make you feel in control, not overwhelmed.
💰 Tax & Currency Tips for Overseas Investors
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Dividends: Expect 15–30% withholding tax (depending on your home country treaty).
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Capital gains: Often exempt if you’re non-resident — but check your own tax jurisdiction.
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Currency: Watch the AUD exchange rate — even strong returns can be eroded by FX moves.
(Tip from Dr Jo: keep a simple log of each trade’s FX rate — your future self will thank you come tax time.)
🧠 Final Word
Australia’s stock market is built on trust, dividends, and long-term performance.
With the right broker, you can tap into it from anywhere — and grow your portfolio with some of the world’s most stable blue-chip companies.
💡 Want to learn how to build an ASX portfolio from anywhere in the world?
Join our free training: “7 Steps of Active Investing.”