Choosing the right share trading platform is one of the most practical decisions an Australian investor makes. In Australia, retail investors can access ASX-listed shares, ETFs, and international markets through a growing range of regulated online brokers — from CommSec (CommBank’s brokerage arm) to low-cost flat-fee platforms like SelfWealth, Superhero, and Pearler.
This hub covers the major Australian investing platforms, how their fee structures compare, the CHESS vs custodian distinction (critical for investor protection), and how to choose a platform suited to your investing style.
Platform Reviews
Major Australian Brokers
- CommSec Review — Australia’s Largest Broker
- SelfWealth Review — Low-Cost CHESS Broker
- Superhero Review — $2 Flat Brokerage
- Pearler Review — Long-Term Investing Platform
- Stake Review — US Shares & ASX Platform
- CMC Markets Review — Invest Account
- Moomoo Review — Commission-Free Trading
- IG Markets Review — Advanced Trading Platform
- Saxo Review — Premium Multi-Asset Platform
- CommSec Pocket Review — Beginner Micro-Investing
Comparisons & Best Picks
- Best Share Trading Platform Australia 2026
- Best Broker for ETFs in Australia
- Best Broker for ASX Shares
- Best Broker for International Shares
- CommSec vs SelfWealth — Which is Better?
- Superhero vs Pearler — Comparison
- Stake vs Superhero
- Brokerage Fees Comparison Australia 2026
Guides & Explained
- CHESS vs Custodian — What’s the Difference?
- How to Open a Brokerage Account in Australia
- Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRP) Explained
- Margin Lending Australia — Borrowing to Invest
- Options Trading Platforms Australia
- CFD Trading Platforms Australia
- Best Crypto Exchanges Australia
Related Sections
Why Your Platform Choice Matters
Brokerage fees compound over time
A $19.95 brokerage fee per trade (CommSec standard) vs $2–$5 flat (Superhero/SelfWealth) can represent thousands of dollars in difference over a lifetime of investing — particularly for investors making regular smaller purchases.
CHESS vs custodian — investor protection
Australian investors should understand whether their broker holds shares directly under their own HIN (Holder Identification Number) via CHESS, or whether shares are held by the broker in a custodial account. CHESS holding is generally considered safer because shares remain in your name even if the broker fails. See CHESS vs Custodian.
Platform suitability
- Beginners: Superhero, CommSec Pocket, Pearler — simple interfaces, low minimums
- Regular investors / DCA: Pearler (auto-invest), SelfWealth (low flat fee), Superhero
- Active ASX traders: CommSec, CMC Markets Invest, SelfWealth
- US shares focus: Stake, Moomoo, Superhero
- Advanced / professional: IG, Saxo
This page provides general financial information only. Platform mentions are for educational context. For advice tailored to your situation, speak with a licensed financial adviser. You can find one through the ASIC financial advisers register or MoneySmart.