How to buy Ethereum (ETH) Australia

Learn how to buy on crypto exchanges in .

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Frank Corva

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Key takeaways

  • Buying Ethereum in Australia typically involves comparing exchanges then depositing AUD via bank transfer or card.
  • Use an exchange's spot market for often lower fees than instant buy, but be aware of ETH's price volatility.
  • Secure your ETH in a personal wallet for self-custody or keep it on an AUSTRAC-registered exchange.
The little brother to Bitcoin, Ethereum (ETH) is the world's second largest cryptocurrency and the most famous "smart contract" platform. ETH tokens were originally sold via an ICO (initial coin offering) in 2014 at a price of US$0.31 per ETH, and are now worth thousands of dollars each.

If you're looking to buy ETH, the easiest approach will generally be to buy it directly from a crypto exchange that lets you buy or trade Ethereum using AUD. You can follow the steps below to get started:

How to buy in 5 steps

If it's your first time buying all you'll need is a smartphone or computer, an internet connection, photo identification and a way to pay.

  1. Compare crypto exchanges
    The easiest way to buy is from a cryptocurrency exchange. Comparing in the table helps you find a platform with the features you want like low fees, ease of use or 24-hour customer support.
  2. Create an account
    To create an account on an exchange, you will need to verify your email address and identity. Have some photo ID and your phone ready.
  3. Make a deposit
    Once verified, you can deposit using the payment method that best suits you – payments are widely accepted.
  4. Buy
    You can now exchange your funds for . On beginner-friendly exchanges, this is as simple as entering the or amount you want to purchase and clicking "buy".
  5. Secure your
    Consider transferring your to a personal crypto wallet to protect against some of the risks of keeping it on an exchange, such as hacks, scams or platform bankruptcy.

Where to buy in

If this is your first time buying cryptocurrency you'll need to look for a platform that accepts s, like or .

Don't worry too much about extra features or coins for now – you can always sign up with another exchange later.

Use the table to choose a platform that meets your needs and click the Go to site button to get started.

Must read: What is ?

Launched in 2015, Ethereum (ETH) is one of the oldest cryptocurrencies and has long been the second largest by market cap. It was initially developed by a team of software engineers to build on Bitcoin's innovative use of blockchain technology while adding new and advanced use cases beyond digital payments.

The key innovation of the Ethereum blockchain is its use of smart contracts. Smart contracts are programmable, self-executing pieces of code that allow parties to reach a consensus without needing an intermediary. Smart contracts also allow you to build software applications on Ethereum, and it was the first blockchain to bring this programmability to cryptocurrencies.

Ethereum's blockchain has since laid the groundwork for thousands of decentrd applications (dapps) to build upon, including DeFi, social networks, games and more. These applications are similar to ones you would find on your computer or on the web, but instead, run on a blockchain to enable additional functionality and security that only blockchains can provide.

Everything running on Ethereum requires the native coin (ETH) to pay for network fees, similar to paying a toll for using the network.

Read our beginner's guide to how Ethereum works

What will I need to buy ?

To create an account with your chosen crypto platform, you only need an email address or mobile number. This will usually allow you to deposit cryptocurrency, but not .

If you want to buy with s, you'll need to pass a Know Your Customer (KYC) check.

This is a standard security procedure for most exchanges in and requires you to upload some photo ID, and in some cases a selfie with today's date.

KYC is usually approved instantly, but in rare cases, you may have to wait a few hours or days.

What are the best ways to buy ?

Once you've set up your account, you'll need to deposit funds to buy with. We've listed out some popular ways to buy and what you should know about each payment method.

Alternative ways to buy

trading is generally associated with buying and selling on a crypto exchange. However, there are some alternatives available if you want to invest in .

  • A contract for difference (CFD) is a popular way of speculating on the price of an asset such as gold, wheat, stocks and crypto. You can purchase CFDs from a wide range of traditional brokers and trading platforms.
  • By purchasing ETF, you'll get exposure to the price of the underlying asset through a conventional online share trading account. This means you won't need to worry about wallet storage or using a crypto exchange.
  • let you wager on the future price of . Crypto futures are only appropriate for experienced traders because of the increased risk of losing all of your investment.

What is the cheapest way to buy ?

Most exchanges let you buy as little as 5 worth of , if not less. Just type in how much you want to spend in and let the exchange work out the rest.

Some platforms only offer 1 way to buy , while others provide several choices. The 2 most common ways to buy are on the spot market or with an "instant buy" feature.

Instant buy

If it's your first time buying this will be the fastest method – but also the least cost-effective.

You'll usually find the instant buy section under a "Buy now" heading on the platform you've chosen.

It should feature a simple interface that lets you enter the amount of you want to buy, or s you want to spend.

This is usually the only option available for credit or debit card purchases, but you may also be able to make an instant buy if you've pre-funded your account with a bank transfer.

Be prepared to pay a markup on 's market rate in exchange for the convenience.

Spot market

If you see colourful charts with a range of prices, you're probably in the spot market.

The spot market is where buyers and sellers come together to place bids for on the open market. It's usually the cheapest way to buy because it lets traders set their own price.

You'll find the spot market under a "Trade" or "Spot" heading on the site or app menu of the platform you've chosen to use.

There are several different order types that you can make on the spot market.

  • Market order. This will buy you the amount of you specify at the lowest possible price available. This makes it like an instant buy order, but with much lower fees.
  • Limit order. This is the most common order type and lets you purchase at the price you specify. Traders use this to time the market and capit on price dips or increases.

How to find the best place to buy in

There are dozens of different trading platforms to choose from when buying in , so to help you find your best option, keep these factors in mind:

  • Where it's registered. Using a locally registered exchange is a good idea. It's more likely to accept s and local payment methods like , which helps avoid foreign exchange fees. Choosing from -based exchanges also means it's likely to be registered with () which means it has to comply with local laws in .
  • Security. Look at the security features the platform has to offer, like 2-factor authentication and PGP-encrypted emails. Cold storage of user funds is considered industry standard, but insurance funds are less common and indicative of good security practices.
  • Fees. Check the fine print to find out exactly how much your transaction will cost. Depending on the platform you choose, these could include spreads, trading fees and deposit and withdrawal charges.
  • Transaction limits. Are there any minimum or maximum limits on the amount of you can purchase? Does the exchange restrict the amount of funds you can withdraw from your account in any 1 transaction or 24-hour period?
  • Other platform features. Look out for other features that suit your investment or trading needs. For instance, many exchanges now let you earn yield on your holdings, while some issue crypto debit cards to help you spend your coins.
  • Customer support. If you ever have a problem with a transaction, will you be able to quickly and easily get in touch with the customer support team? Are they based in ? Check what contact methods are available and find out how quick the team is at responding to enquiries.
  • Insurance fund. A small number of exchanges now insure user funds. Beware that policies vary greatly between exchanges, so you'll need to research this thoroughly if insurance is important to you.
  • Reputation. As a young industry, reputation can provide a lot of clues when choosing an exchange. For instance, who are the founders? Have there been any controversies? Are their business practices transparent? If you can't find any of this information, that may be a red flag.
  • Range of coins. If you're thinking about adding other cryptos to your portfolio in the future, check to see what other coins you can buy through the platform.
  • Read reviews. Finder's crypto exchange reviews include user feedback, which helps you get a better idea of what the exchange is like to use for other people starting out just like you.

Using -registered exchanges

There are plenty of places to buy , and people in can choose from platforms registered here at home or in locations all around the world. Opting for a locally registered exchange typically offers more convenience, but may have some downsides depending on your goals.

Pros
  • -based exchanges must comply with Anti-money Laundering (AML) and Counter-terrorism Financing (CTF) reporting obligations.
  • You can usually buy with .
  • Exchanges in typically support local payment methods, such as .
  • You may be able to access local customer support.
  • Subject to local laws.
Cons
  • You'll need to provide your personal details and proof of ID – a disadvantage if you want to trade anonymously.
  • Overseas trading platforms may provide better liquidity.
  • -to-crypto prices are often slightly higher than USD-to-crypto prices, meaning you sometimes pay a premium for buying directly with s.
  • Some features are simply not available on -registered exchanges. For example, high leverage margin trading, DeFi features and some altcoins.

Is safe to invest in?

You shouldn't invest in any asset, including without doing plenty of research first. Before you buy , make sure you understand and weigh up these risks:

  • Price volatility. 's price is largely based on speculation, which means it can rise or fall in a short time. It's not uncommon for to lose more than 10% of its value in a single day.
  • Perceived value. is a unique asset that does not have any tangible value. It derives most of its value from utility and speculation.
  • Exchange vulnerabilities. Leaving your on a crypto platform exposes you to several counterparty risks, including:
    • Scams. Scammers frequently try to trick exchange users into handing over their username and password, often by phishing with malicious emails or fake website links. Use 2FA and encrypted emails to help protect your funds.
    • Hacks and theft. Exchanges are vulnerable to hacks and theft, so choose one with good security practices and a track record of safety.
    • Fiscal mismanagement. In mid-2022 a number of crypto platforms froze user funds after it was revealed they had engaged in irresponsible funds management.
    • Insurance. Unlike stocks, only a small handful of exchanges provide insurance on your cash deposits.
  • Regulatory uncertainty. The regulatory environment for and other cryptos is constantly changing. It's important to understand how international rulings have the potential to impact 's future – for better or worse.
  • Novel technology. was created in 2026 which makes it relatively new as a form of technology and as a currency. doesn't yet have the same track record or performance history as some other asset classes.
  • Technical learning curve. Evaluating the tech behind before you invest is important, but requires a deep understanding of the blockchain and other aspects of decentrd finance. You should be prepared to do plenty of research.

How is taxed?

is increasingly treated as a financial asset by governments around the world. This means that you may need to declare your holdings at tax time and should consider consulting a tax professional to make sure you don't run afoul of the law.

After you've bought

Once you own some , you have 2 options – keep it on an exchange, or move it to a personal wallet. Each comes with its own set of pros and cons.

Keeping your on an exchange

Pros
  • Convenience. Keeping your on an exchange is convenient because you can buy and sell at any time.
  • Security. Holding on an exchange does come with significant counterparty risks, but reputable platforms also invest heavily in security so you don't have to worry about the pitfalls of self-custody.
  • Insurance. A small handful of exchanges now operate insurance schemes. These can range from insuring user deposits held in cold storage to reimbursing customers if a hack occurs.
Cons
  • Phishing. Exchange users are frequently targeted by scammers trying to steal login information through malicious emails and fake website links.
  • Hacking. Exchanges are major targets for hackers. While security practices have improved substantially, hacks still occur from time to time.
  • Account freezing. Exchanges have been known to occasionally freeze user accounts, whether due to security concerns, technical issues or market turbulence. This could see you temporarily lose access to your crypto.

Moving your to a non-custodial wallet

Pros
  • Self-custody. A mantra repeated by crypto investors is "Not your keys, not your coins." This comes from the idea that the only way to guarantee ownership of your is to own the private key — which isn't the case when you hold on an exchange.
  • Security. and cryptocurrency wallets vary greatly in their features and security. For the most secure experience, consider purchasing a hardware wallet, which is usually a small USB device that keeps your private keys offline at all times for an extra layer of security.
  • Utility. If you plan to use your for transactions, daily spending or decentrd finance (DeFi), then storing it in a wallet rather than an exchange will be more convenient.
Cons
  • Learning curve. It's no secret that learning how to use a crypto wallet takes some time and effort. Spend some time learning how wallets work before transferring any of your funds.
  • Personal responsibility. Owning your own money can be liberating, but it also means the responsibility is all yours. If you lose your private key, the only way to regain access to your wallet is through the seed phrase. Make sure to store both of these privately and securely.
  • Inheritance. A challenge presented by crypto wallets is how to pass access on in the event of death or disability. Several companies are experimenting with ways to solve this problem, like the Trezor Model T wallet's Shamir backup feature.

Bottom line

If you want to buy , start by comparing a range of crypto brokers and exchanges available in . Look at their features, fees, security and overall reputation to decide which platform is the right fit for you. Consider an exchange registered with for added peace of mind.

Remember that owning and using is not without its risks. Carefully consider investing in as part of a wider strategy, and talk to a financial advisor if you have any questions.

Once you've bought some , think about what your short and long-term goals are. This will help you decide whether to keep it on an exchange, or move it to your own wallet.

Crypto news update: October 2026

Despite dipping in September, the price of Bitcoin is up over 8% in the last month with Ether following at 4%. Meanwhile, Altcoins have been having a moment with BNB one of the top performers, jumping over 20% in the last 30 days alone, XRP up 6% and SOL having jumped 11%.

Meanwhile crypto exchanges in Australia will soon need to hold a financial services license (AFSL) under new draft legislation. Once rolled out, it means exchanges will be held to the same reporting and compliance standards as superfunds and online brokers.

FAQs

How to buy other cryptos

BitcoinBitcoin symbol
EthereumEthereum symbol
TetherTether symbol
XRPXRP symbol
BNBBNB symbol
SolanaSolana symbol
DogecoinDogecoin symbol
TRONTRON symbol
CardanoCardano symbol
Lido Staked EtherLido Staked Ether symbol

Sources

Disclaimer: Cryptocurrencies, including , are speculative, complex and involve significant risks – they are highly volatile and sensitive to secondary activity. Performance is unpredictable and past performance of is no guarantee of future performance. Consider your own circumstances, and obtain your own advice, before relying on this information. You should also verify the nature of any product or service (including its legal status and relevant regulatory requirements) and consult the relevant Regulators' websites before making any decision. Finder, or the author, may have holdings in the or any other cryptocurrency discussed.

Why is ETH up today?
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Tom Stelzer is a journalist with 6 years of experience covering personal finance, specialising in investment and cryptocurrency. With a Master of Media Arts and Production and a Bachelor of Communications in Journalism from the University of Technology Sydney, Tom provides expert analysis on digital assets and market trends, helping readers navigate the fast-evolving world of finance. See full bio

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Frank is a cryptocurrency expert whose work aims to simplify the complexities of this evolving space for a broad audience. His byline has appeared in Forbes and Bitcoin Magazine. Frank holds multiple advanced degrees, including an MBA in Finance from Pace University and a Master of Social Work from Hunter College. Frank was a Cryptocurrency Writer at Finder from 2022 to 2024. See full bio

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