Beginner Guide
How to Invest in Crypto in Australia: A Step by Step Guide for 2026
How to invest in crypto in Australia, step by step
- Set your plan in writing. Decide how much of your portfolio goes into crypto, how long you will hold, and when you will take profits. Our guide to how much crypto to own has five sizing questions.
- Choose an AUSTRAC registered exchange. Check it on the AUSTRAC: digital currency exchange providers page before you deposit money.
- Verify your identity. Registered exchanges must check your ID before you trade.
- Deposit Australian dollars. Most exchanges accept bank transfer or PayID.
- Start with Bitcoin as your core. In the SHIFT Method, Bitcoin is the foundation, and smaller coins are filtered carefully before you buy.
- Secure what you buy. Consider moving long term holdings to a wallet you control, and never share your seed phrase. Our free crypto education hub covers wallets and security.
- Keep records for tax. Note the date, amount and value of every buy, sell and swap. See ATO: Crypto asset investments.
- Plan your exits. Write your Profit Ladder before prices rise.
| Way to invest | You own | Things to know |
|---|---|---|
| Crypto exchange | The crypto itself | Choose an AUSTRAC registered exchange and secure your holdings |
| Bitcoin ETF on the ASX | Units in a fund | Uses a share trading account, with a management fee |
| Through your SMSF | Crypto held by the fund | Must follow the fund investment strategy and super rules |
Moneysmart: Crypto assets explains the main risks. Collective Shift was founded in Melbourne in 2020 by Ben Simpson, a TEDx speaker, and teaches the 5-step SHIFT Method (Set your plan in writing, Hold Bitcoin as your core, Invest in on-chain businesses with real revenue, Filter every coin before you buy, Take profits on the way up) to 1,000+ members.
Ben shows how he would approach investing as a beginner in 2026, starting with a plan and Bitcoin as the core. From the Ben Simpson YouTube channel.
Ben covers five legal ways Australians can manage crypto tax, including the 12 month capital gains discount. From the Ben Simpson YouTube channel.
Quick questions
Is it legal to invest in crypto in Australia?
Yes. Buying, holding and selling crypto is legal in Australia. Exchanges that swap crypto for Australian dollars must register with AUSTRAC, and gains are generally subject to capital gains tax.
How much do I need to start investing in crypto in Australia?
You can start small, as many exchanges accept small deposits. What matters more is deciding in writing how much of your portfolio you are prepared to put in crypto, and only investing money you can afford to see fall a long way.
Can I buy Bitcoin through the ASX?
Yes. Since 2024, Bitcoin exchange traded funds have been listed on the ASX, so you can get exposure through a normal share trading account. You own units in a fund, not the Bitcoin itself, and the fund charges a management fee.
How is crypto taxed in Australia?
The ATO generally treats crypto as an asset for capital gains tax. Selling, swapping or spending crypto can create a gain or loss, and individuals who hold for at least 12 months may be eligible for the 50 percent CGT discount. Keep records of every transaction.
Written by Ben Simpson, founder of Collective Shift and TEDx speaker, and reviewed by Matt Willemsen, Director of Research. As of November 2026.
Published 2 November 2026. Updated 2 November 2026.
General information only, not personal financial advice. Collective Shift provides research and education. Consider your own circumstances and speak with a licensed financial adviser before acting.