Best Share Trading Platform Australia 2026 — Broker Comparison
This article provides general information only and does not constitute financial advice. For advice tailored to your situation, consult a licensed financial adviser. Learn more.
Contents
The best share trading platform in Australia depends on how you invest — your contribution size, frequency, whether you want CHESS sponsorship, and whether you focus on ASX or international shares. In 2026, Australian investors have more choice than ever: from established bank-backed brokers like CommSec to low-cost platforms like Superhero ($2 ETF brokerage) and Pearler (auto-invest).
This guide compares the major Australian brokers by investor type to help you identify the right fit.
Quick Comparison — Australian Brokers 2026
| Platform | ASX ETF fee | ASX Shares fee | CHESS | Auto-invest | US shares |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CommSec | $19.95 | $19.95 | Yes | No | Yes |
| SelfWealth | $9.50 | $9.50 | Yes | No | Yes (USD $9.50) |
| Superhero | $2.00 | $5.00 | Yes | Yes (ETFs) | $0 |
| Pearler | $6.50 | $6.50 | Yes | Yes | Yes (USD $6.50) |
| CMC Invest | $0 (1st/month) | $0 (1st/month) | Yes | No | Yes |
| Stake | $3.00 | $3.00 | No | No | $0 |
| Moomoo | ~$0 | ~$0 | No | No | ~$0 |
| IG | $8.00 | $8.00 | No | No | $0 |
| Saxo | 0.12% (min $10) | 0.12% (min $10) | No | No | Yes |
| CommSec Pocket | $2 (≤$1k) | ETFs only | Yes | No | No |
Best Broker by Investor Type
Best for ETF investors (DCA strategy)
Superhero or CMC Invest
Superhero’s $2 flat ETF brokerage is the cheapest on the ASX market for multiple monthly trades. CMC Invest’s first-trade-free-per-month model is optimal if you make a single monthly purchase. Both are CHESS sponsored.
For investors who want auto-invest alongside low cost, Pearler at $6.50 with scheduling capability is the primary alternative.
Best for beginners
CommSec Pocket or Superhero
CommSec Pocket offers a $50 minimum, 10 curated ETFs, and tight CommBank integration. Superhero’s clean interface, $100 minimum, and $2 brokerage make it an excellent beginner choice with more flexibility than Pocket.
Best for regular ASX share investors
SelfWealth or Superhero
SelfWealth’s $9.50 flat is competitive for $2,000+ trades. Superhero’s $5 flat for individual shares is cheaper for all trade sizes.
Best for CHESS-priority investors
CommSec, SelfWealth, Superhero, or Pearler
All four offer CHESS sponsorship. CommSec has the longest track record. SelfWealth is listed on the ASX. Superhero and Pearler are well-funded and growing rapidly.
Best for US shares
Stake, Superhero, or Moomoo
All three offer $0 commission US share trading. Stake and Moomoo are custodian-based. Superhero offers CHESS for ASX holdings alongside $0 US trades.
Best for active traders
Moomoo or IG
Moomoo’s advanced charting, real-time data, and commission-free model make it a strong choice for active traders. IG offers broader international access and professional tools.
Best for international markets beyond the US
Saxo or IG
Both provide extensive multi-exchange international access. Saxo covers 70+ exchanges with multi-asset capability.
Key Decisions Before Choosing
1. CHESS vs custodian
If you want shares held directly in your name, choose a CHESS-sponsored broker: CommSec, SelfWealth, Superhero, Pearler, or CMC Invest. See CHESS vs Custodian.
2. Brokerage fee structure
For frequent small trades: Superhero or CMC Invest (first trade free). For larger lump sums: SelfWealth’s flat $9.50 scales well.
3. Auto-invest
Only Pearler (all securities) and Superhero (ETFs only) offer scheduled recurring investments.
4. US or international focus
Stake, Moomoo, and Superhero for US shares. Saxo and IG for broader international access.
Related Articles
- Best ETF Broker Australia
- Best Broker for ASX Shares
- Best Broker for International Shares
- CHESS vs Custodian Explained
- Brokerage Fees Comparison Australia
- Share Trading Platforms hub
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest broker in Australia? For ETF trades, Superhero ($2 flat) and CMC Invest (first trade free per month) are among the cheapest options. For US shares, Stake, Moomoo, and Superhero all offer $0 commission.
Which Australian broker is CHESS sponsored? CommSec, SelfWealth, Superhero, Pearler, and CMC Invest all offer CHESS-sponsored ASX holdings.
Should I use multiple brokers? Some investors use one broker for regular ETF contributions (e.g., Superhero) and another for US shares or active trading (e.g., Stake or Moomoo). This is valid but adds complexity to tax record-keeping. Most investors with a straightforward strategy are well served by a single platform.
This article provides general financial information only. Brokerage fees and platform features are as of the date of publication and may have changed. For advice tailored to your situation, speak with a licensed financial adviser. You can find one through the ASIC financial advisers register or MoneySmart.