Looking for the best investment app in Australia for 2026? If you want low fees, easy access, or powerful trading tools, we looked at top platforms like Freetrade, Trading 212, Vanguard, and others. Here’s a breakdown of their features, costs, and who they’re best for, so you can pick what fits your investing style.
Quick Picks Summary
- Freetrade: Best for commission-free investing and beginner-friendly interface with low minimums.
- Trading 212: Great for fractional shares and a broad range of assets including forex and crypto.
- Vanguard: Ideal for long-term Australian investors focused on low-cost index funds and ETFs.
- Public.com: Best for social investing and community-driven insights, blending education and investing.
- Hargreaves Lansdown: Reliable traditional broker with extensive research but higher fees, suited for experienced investors.
- Interactive Brokers: Best for advanced traders seeking global market access and comprehensive tools.
- Charles Schwab: Good for Australians wanting exposure to the US market with diverse investment options.
1. Freetrade
Key Features: Freetrade offers commission-free trading on Australian, US, and UK stocks and ETFs. It supports fractional share investing which means you can buy portions of expensive stocks, starting from as little as AUD 1. The app features a clean, simple design aimed at beginners, with a wallet in Australian dollars for easy deposits and withdrawals. It also includes a watchlist, basic research tools, and educational content tailored for new investors.
Pros: One big plus is zero commission fees on trades, something you don’t see often with Australian brokers. The fractional shares feature means you don’t need a big lump sum to start investing in high-priced stocks like Amazon or Tesla. The minimum deposit is low — just AUD 1 — making it accessible for those just starting out. This app’s interface is clean and easy to navigate, with transparent pricing and no hidden charges.
Cons: The downside is Freetrade’s investment options are limited compared to full-service brokers. You won’t find access to international markets beyond US and UK stocks, and there are no advanced trading tools like limit orders or options trading. Also, the app doesn’t currently offer direct access to the Australian stock exchange (ASX) beyond ETFs, which might be a limitation for some investors.
Best For: If you’re a beginner or casual investor looking for low-cost, simple access to popular US and UK stocks, Freetrade is a solid pick. It’s great for building a portfolio slowly with small amounts thanks to fractional shares.
Pricing: The standard account is free with commission-free trades. The Freetrade Plus plan costs AUD 9.99 per month and adds access to more stocks, ISA accounts, and some additional features like limit orders.
2. Trading 212
Key Features: Trading 212 offers commission-free trading across a wide variety of assets including stocks, ETFs, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. It supports fractional shares and provides both a mobile and desktop platform with advanced charting and technical analysis tools. The app includes real-time market data and news feeds, plus an educational section for beginners.
Pros: Zero commission fees make it attractive for active traders and beginners alike. They offer a wide range of assets — you can trade shares from different markets, plus forex pairs and popular cryptos like Bitcoin and Ethereum. This platform’s advanced charting tools are rare for a commission-free broker, allowing more experienced traders to analyse price movements. The user interface is clean and intuitive on both mobile and desktop.
Cons: Regulatory scrutiny has limited Trading 212’s availability in some countries, so Australian users should check current access and compliance. Customer support can be slow at times, and there have been some reports of withdrawal delays. Also, while it offers many assets, it doesn't support direct investing in Australian shares listed on the ASX, which may be a drawback for local investors.
Best For: Traders who want to access many global assets, including forex and crypto, without commission fees. Also good for those who want fractional shares and more advanced charting tools but don’t need ASX access.
Pricing: No commissions on trades. There are no account fees or inactivity charges. Currency conversion fees may apply when trading non-AUD pairs.
3. Vanguard Australia
Key Features: Vanguard is a heavyweight in low-cost index investing. In Australia, it offers a direct investing platform focused on ETFs and managed funds. The platform targets long-term investors with a simple, no-frills interface and access to Vanguard’s globally diversified funds. It supports AUD deposits and provides detailed fund information and performance data.
Pros: Vanguard is known for low fees — their management expense ratios often sit below 0.20%, making them some of the cheapest in Australia. The investment options focus on diversified index funds, ideal for reducing risk over time. The platform is straightforward and backed by a trusted global brand with a long track record. It’s perfect for buy-and-hold investors who want simple portfolio building.
Cons: The platform doesn’t offer active trading features or access to individual stocks outside Vanguard’s funds. Fees apply on trades — typically around AUD 10 per transaction — which can add up for frequent traders. The minimum initial investment for managed funds can be AUD 1,000 or more, which might be a barrier for beginners with small amounts to invest.
Best For: Long-term Australian investors who want low-cost, diversified exposure through index funds and ETFs without fuss. Not suited to day traders or those wanting to pick individual stocks.
Pricing: No account fees. Transaction fees are AUD 10 per trade for ETFs purchased on the platform. Fund management fees vary but are generally under 0.20% annually.
4. Public.com
Key Features: Public.com is a US-based social investing platform that's available to Australians. It combines commission-free trading with a social feed where investors can share insights, follow others, and learn. It offers stocks and ETFs with fractional share investing and educational resources.
Pros: The social community aspect is unique — you can see what other investors are buying, join discussions, and get ideas. Fractional shares allow investing with small amounts. The app is designed to educate and engage, making it appealing to novice investors. There are no commission fees and no minimum deposit.
Cons: Limited access to Australian stocks and no direct ASX trading. The social feature might not appeal to investors who prefer privacy or independent research. Also, the platform’s order types and trading tools are quite basic compared to traditional brokers.
Best For: New investors who want to learn and engage with a community while investing in US stocks commission-free. Less ideal for those focused on Australian shares or advanced trading.
Pricing: Commission-free trades with no account minimums. No fees for fractional shares.
5. Hargreaves Lansdown
Key Features: Hargreaves Lansdown is one of the UK’s largest brokers and accessible to Australian investors via international accounts. It offers extensive research, many investment options including shares, funds, ETFs, and bonds, plus advanced trading tools and customer support.
Pros: The platform provides deep research and market analysis, ideal for experienced investors. It offers access to global markets, including the ASX through international trading accounts. The website and apps have powerful charting and order options. Customer service is well regarded.
Cons: Fees are higher than commission-free brokers — trades can cost AUD 12 or more. The platform is less suited to beginners because of its complexity and costs. Currency conversion fees can also add to expenses when trading foreign markets.
Best For: Experienced investors who want comprehensive market access and research tools, and are willing to pay higher fees for premium service.
Pricing: Trading fees start around AUD 12 per trade. No account fees but currency conversion fees apply.
6. Interactive Brokers
Key Features: Interactive Brokers is a global broker offering access to over 135 markets worldwide, including ASX, US, Europe, and Asia. It provides advanced trading tools, professional-level charting, and algorithmic trading capabilities. It supports multiple currencies and has a tiered pricing structure.
Pros: Best in class for active, professional traders needing global market access and sophisticated tools. Low commissions starting from AUD 1 per trade on ASX stocks. Supports margin trading and options. The platform is highly customisable and includes risk management features.
Cons: Complex interface that can overwhelm beginners. Monthly inactivity fees apply if you don’t meet minimum trading or balance requirements (AUD 10).
Customer support can be slow. Not designed for casual or beginner investors.
Best For: Professional and advanced traders who require global market exposure, low commissions, and comprehensive tools.
Pricing: Commissions start at AUD 1 per trade on ASX, with tiered pricing for higher volumes. Monthly inactivity fee of AUD 10 if minimum criteria aren't met.
7. Charles Schwab
Key Features: Charles Schwab offers Australian investors access to the US markets with a broad range of stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and fixed income products. It has a user-friendly platform with research tools and a global account that supports multiple currencies.
Pros: No commission fees on US stock and ETF trades. Strong research and educational resources. Access to IPOs and Schwab’s own ETFs with low expense ratios. Supports Australian dollar funding through partnerships and has an easy onboarding process.
Cons: Limited access to ASX shares. Currency conversion fees when funding in AUD. The platform may not offer as many advanced trading tools compared to Interactive Brokers.
Best For: Australians wanting low-cost access to US stocks and ETFs combined with solid research and support.
Pricing: No commissions on US stock and ETF trades. Currency conversion fees apply on AUD deposits.
For Australians in 2026, Freetrade and Trading 212 shine for commission-free trading and easy-to-use apps, especially if you want fractional shares and diverse assets. Vanguard remains a top pick for long-term investors focused on low-cost index funds. Advanced traders will find Interactive Brokers and Hargreaves Lansdown offer the tools and market access they need, though at higher costs. Meanwhile, platforms like Public.com and Charles Schwab provide unique angles with social investing and US market exposure respectively. Your best choice depends on your experience, investment goals, and preferred markets.
This article was created with AI assistance.
