Micro Investing · 7 platforms tracked

Compare Australian micro-investing platforms

Micro-investing platforms let you start with small amounts, often as little as $1, making them a practical entry point for new investors or anyone wanting to build a habit without committing large sums. Some platforms offer direct ASX shares with CHESS sponsorship, while others use a custodian model where the provider holds the assets on your behalf. The key trade-off is between low minimums and ownership structure. We track 7 micro-investing platforms on Investmatch, each with different fee models, investment options, and account types. When choosing, focus on whether CHESS sponsorship matters to you, what markets you want access to, and how the fees stack up against your regular investment amount.

By Investmatch Research Team · Last updated 15 May 2026

What to look for

  • CHESS sponsorship: your shares held under your own HIN, not the provider's name
  • Custodian model: provider holds assets for you, faster to trade but less direct ownership
  • Minimum investment: some platforms start from $1, others from $50 or $200
  • Monthly fees: a flat fee can eat small balances, look for zero-fee options
  • Auto-invest and rounding: set-and-forget features that drip-feed money into markets
  • Markets offered: ASX only, US only, or both, and whether fractional shares are available

Micro Investing platforms in Australia

7 tracked. Click any platform for the full data breakdown including fees, account types, and source citations.

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Frequently asked questions

What is micro-investing?
Micro-investing means buying shares or ETFs with very small amounts of money, sometimes as little as $1. These platforms lower the barrier to entry by offering fractional shares, round-up features, or low minimums. It is a way to start investing without needing thousands of dollars upfront.
Is micro-investing CHESS sponsored?
It depends on the platform. Some micro-investing apps like Commsec Pocket and Stockspot are CHESS sponsored, meaning shares are held under your own HIN. Others like Raiz, Sharesies, and Spaceship Voyager use a custodian model, where the provider holds the assets on your behalf. Check the platform's ownership structure before signing up.
What are the fees for micro-investing platforms?
Fees vary widely. Some platforms charge zero brokerage and no monthly fee (Vanguard Personal Investor). Others charge a flat monthly fee, such as Raiz at $5.50 or Spaceship Voyager at $3. Some charge a percentage per trade, like Sharesies at 1.9%. For small balances, a flat monthly fee can be relatively expensive, so compare carefully.
Can I buy US shares with a micro-investing app?
Some micro-investing platforms offer US shares, including fractional shares. Webull, Sharesies, and Spaceship Voyager all support US stocks. Commsec Pocket and Vanguard Personal Investor are ASX-only. If US exposure is important, check that the platform offers it and whether there are currency conversion costs.
Can I set up automatic investments?
Yes, most micro-investing platforms support auto-invest or dollar-cost averaging. You can set up regular transfers from your bank account to buy shares or ETFs automatically. Raiz also offers a round-up feature that invests your spare change. This is a common feature across all 7 platforms tracked on Investmatch.
Are micro-investing platforms suitable for kids?
Some platforms offer kids or minor accounts. Vanguard Personal Investor, Sharesies, Raiz Invest, and Stockspot all support accounts for children. Commsec Pocket, Webull, and Spaceship Voyager do not. If you want to invest on behalf of a child, check the platform's minor account options.
Is my money safe with a micro-investing platform?
All platforms on Investmatch are Australian-regulated and hold an AFSL or are operated by an AFSL holder. If the platform is CHESS sponsored, your ASX shares are held under your HIN and are not affected if the platform fails. Under a custodian model, your assets are held in a trust structure, but the provider's financial health matters more. Always check the platform's disclosure documents.

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