7 Best Options Brokers in Australia 2025
Discover the best options brokers, handpicked and tested for Australians, offering low fees, user-friendly tools, and diverse asset options.
eToro
AUS Options Broker Score: 4.75/5
51% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
AvaTrade
AUS Options Broker Score: 4.6/5
76% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Saxo Bank
AUS Options Broker Score: 4.5/5
64% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
CMC Markets
AUS Options Broker Score: 4.45/5
70% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Pepperstone
AUS Options Broker Score: 4.2/5
81.7% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Admirals
AUS Options Broker Score: 4/5
61% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Quick Answer: What Is the Best Options Broker in Australia?
eToro is the best options broker in Australia for 2025, offering an intuitive platform, low fees, and tools for both beginners and experienced traders. As an ASIC-regulated broker, eToro also stands out for its social trading feature, allowing traders to learn from top performers while making informed decisions.
How Do the Best Options Brokers in Australia Compare?
| Rank | Broker | Fees | ASIC-Regulated | Tools for Options Trading | Market Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | eToro | Low | ✅ Yes | Social trading, analytics, education | Australian and global markets |
| #2 | AvaTrade | Moderate | ✅ Yes | Comprehensive tutorials, demo account | Australian and global markets |
| #3 | Saxo Bank | High | ✅ Yes | Advanced charting, global data | Extensive global options markets |
| #4 | CMC Markets | Moderate | ✅ Yes | Risk management tools, ASX-focused | Australian and some international |
| #5 | Pepperstone | Low | ✅ Yes | Fast execution, analytics tools | Australian and global markets |
| #6 | Admirals | Low to Moderate | ✅ Yes | MetaTrader integration, advanced tools | Australian and international markets |
| #7 | Interactive Brokers | Low for active traders | ✅ Yes | Customisable tools, pro-level features | Extensive global options markets |
Choosing the right broker is essential in a market where opportunities abound. The ASX recorded a monthly options trading value of approximately 1.11 billion AUD in May 2024 , demonstrating the activity level in this space.
Which Are the 7 Best Options Brokers for Australians in 2025?
- eToro – Intuitive, low fees, ASIC-regulated platform
- AvaTrade – Comprehensive learning resources and tools
- Saxo Bank – Outstanding advanced technical analysis features
- CMC Markets – Best for direct ASX options access
- Pepperstone – Low-cost and ASIC-regulated for Australians
- Admirals – Great MetaTrader integration for advanced trading
- Interactive Brokers – Advanced platform for professional traders
eToro – Most user-friendly for Australians
Pros & Cons
- Low fees with no hidden charges.
- Social trading, ideal for beginners to learn from experienced traders.
- User-friendly platform, accessible on mobile and desktop.
- Limited advanced features for professional options traders.
- No direct access to ASX-listed options.
-
How Much Are the Fees for Options Trading on eToro?
-
What Options Trading Tools Does eToro Provide?
eToro’s fee structure is highly competitive:
- No commission fees for stock CFDs and options trading.
- Low spreads, starting from 0.75%, depending on the asset.
- Inactivity fee: $10 per month after 12 months of no activity.
These fees make eToro ideal for new and budget-conscious traders.
eToro offers tools to suit all skill levels:
- Social trading lets you copy experienced traders’ portfolios.
- Interactive charts and analytics help you monitor performance.
- Education resources include webinars and beginner-friendly guides.
Using eToro’s social trading, you could hypothetically copy a trader specialising in ASX-listed stocks. This allows you to benefit from their expertise while learning strategies in real time.
CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 51% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
AvaTrade – Best for beginners
Pros & Cons
- Extensive educational resources for beginners, including tutorials and webinars.
- ASIC-regulated, ensuring a secure trading environment.
- Free demo account to practise without financial risk.
- Higher inactivity fees ($50 per quarter).
- Limited advanced tools for professionals.
-
How Much Are the Fees for Options Trading?
-
What Features Make AvaTrade Ideal for Beginners?
AvaTrade’s fees are competitive:
- No commission on trades, with costs built into spreads (starting at 0.9 pips).
- Inactivity fee: $50 per quarter after three months of inactivity.
Transparent fees make it easier for beginners to plan their trades and minimise costs.
AvaTrade excels with its beginner-friendly approach:
- Comprehensive tutorials and live webinars explain complex concepts in simple terms.
- Risk management tools, like stop-loss orders, help you limit losses.
- Demo accounts let you practise strategies risk-free.
If you’re new to options trading, AvaTrade’s tutorials can help you understand the basics, such as how to execute a covered call strategy effectively.
CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 76% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Saxo – Great for global options markets
Pros & Cons
- Access to global markets, with over 30 exchanges available.
- Advanced tools like SaxoTraderPRO for detailed analysis.
- ASIC-regulated, ensuring security for Australian traders.
- High minimum deposit ($3,000 AUD).
- Higher fees compared to competitors.
-
How Much Are the Fees for Options Trading on Saxo?
-
What Tools Does Saxo Offer for Options Traders?
Saxo’s fee structure caters to professionals:
- Options commissions: Starting at $3 AUD per lot.
- Account maintenance fee: Waived for active traders but applied to inactive accounts.
These fees may be higher than other platforms but are justified by the advanced tools and access to global markets.
Saxo stands out for its cutting-edge features:
- SaxoTraderGO and SaxoTraderPRO provide real-time data and customisable dashboards.
- Advanced charting tools with global insights.
- Access to 30+ exchanges, including the US and Europe.
For example, using SaxoTraderPRO, you could execute a bull call spread on a NASDAQ-listed stock, leveraging their robust analytics for precise entry points.
CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 64% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
CMC Markets – Ideal for advanced strategies
Pros & Cons
- Direct access to ASX-listed options.
- Comprehensive risk management tools.
- ASIC-regulated, providing a secure environment.
- Complex interface, which can be overwhelming for beginners.
- Higher spreads compared to some competitors.
-
How Much Are the Fees for Options Trading?
-
What Advanced Options Tools Does CMC Markets Provide?
CMC Markets charges:
- Spreads starting at 0.7 points, varying by asset.
- No inactivity fees, which is a plus for infrequent traders.
Although spreads are slightly higher, the advanced tools and ASX access justify the cost for traders focusing on local markets.
CMC Markets is perfect for advanced traders due to:
- Advanced charting tools for detailed market analysis.
- Guaranteed stop-loss orders, which cap your risk.
- Direct ASX options integration, ideal for Australian traders.
Suppose you’re implementing an iron condor strategy on the S&P/ASX 200. CMC Markets’ risk management tools ensure you can cap losses while earning premiums within your chosen range.
CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 70% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Pepperstone – Best for low-cost trading
Pros & Cons
- Low trading costs, including tight spreads.
- ASIC-regulated, ensuring a safe environment for Australian traders.
- Fast execution speeds on trades.
- Limited educational resources.
- No proprietary platform, relying on MetaTrader.
-
How Much Are the Fees for Options Trading?
-
What Features Make Pepperstone Cost-Effective?
Pepperstone offers one of the most affordable fee structures:
- No commission on options, with spreads starting from 0.1 pips.
- No inactivity fees, making it suitable for casual traders.
The low costs and transparent structure make it an excellent choice for Australians seeking cost-effective options trading.
Pepperstone excels in affordability with:
- Tight spreads, particularly for forex and options.
- MetaTrader and cTrader integration, offering robust tools without extra fees.
- No hidden costs, allowing you to focus on maximising returns.
If you’re testing a protective put strategy for risk management, Pepperstone’s low fees help you keep costs under control while ensuring seamless execution.
CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 81.7% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Admirals – Complete trading solutions
Pros & Cons
- Seamless MetaTrader integration, great for experienced traders.
- Advanced analytics tools for informed decision-making.
- ASIC-regulated, ensuring compliance with Australian laws.
- Less modern interface compared to competitors.
- Steeper learning curve for beginners.
-
How Competitive Are the Fees for Options Trading?
-
What Options Trading Tools Does Admirals Provide?
Admirals provides competitive fees:
- Low spreads, starting from 0.5 pips.
- Inactivity fee: $10 per month after 12 months of inactivity.
The affordable fee structure, coupled with advanced tools, makes Admirals a strong contender for Australian traders.
Admirals offers a robust suite of tools:
- MetaTrader 4 and 5 integration with advanced plugins.
- Educational content, including webinars and trading guides.
- Analytics tools, like sentiment indicators and volatility measures.
For a bull call spread strategy, Admirals’ customisable analytics help you identify precise entry points while limiting risks.
CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 61% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Interactive Brokers – Perfect for experienced traders
Pros & Cons
- Low margin rates, ideal for active traders.
- Customisable platform with pro-level features.
- Access to over 100 global markets.
- Steep learning curve.
- Higher minimum deposit requirements for some accounts.
-
How Much Are the Fees for Options Trading?
-
What Advanced Tools Does Interactive Brokers Offer for Options Traders?
Interactive Brokers is designed for professionals:
- Options commissions: Start at $0.70 per contract.
- No inactivity fees for active traders.
The fee structure is competitive for traders who execute large volumes of trades.
Interactive Brokers delivers unparalleled features:
- Customisable trading platforms, including Trader Workstation (TWS).
- Advanced market scanners for real-time opportunities.
- Global market access, allowing traders to diversify portfolios.
For an iron condor strategy, Interactive Brokers’ detailed analytics and customisable interface help experienced traders optimise risk and returns.
CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 62.5% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
How Can You Start Options Trading in Australia?
1. What Are the Basics of Options Trading?
Options trading involves buying or selling contracts that give you the right, but not the obligation, to trade an asset at a specific price. It’s a flexible tool for managing risk or profiting from market movements.
2. Which Options Strategies Should Beginners Focus On?
Beginner-friendly strategies include:
- Covered calls, which generate steady income from stocks you own.
- Protective puts, offering insurance against market declines.
What Are the Most Common Options Trading Strategies for Australians?
| Strategy | Purpose | Best Used In | Hypothetical Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covered Calls | Generate steady income | Flat or slightly bullish markets | You own 100 shares of an ASX bank stock trading at $50. You sell a call option with a $55 strike price, earning a $2 premium. If the stock stays below $55, you keep the $2 per share premium as income. If it rises above $55, you sell the shares at a $5 profit per share. |
| Protective Puts | Manage risk and limit losses | During market uncertainty or high volatility | You hold shares in an Australian mining company. Concerned about market volatility, you buy a put option with a $70 strike price for $3 per share. If the stock drops to $60, the put protects you by letting you sell at $70, offsetting the loss in stock value. |
| Bull Call Spread | Reduce cost of a bullish trade | Anticipated moderate price increases | You expect an ASX-listed tech stock to rise but want to limit your costs. You buy a call option at a $40 strike price for $5 and sell another at a $50 strike price for $2. If the stock reaches $50, you profit from the $10 price rise minus the $3 net premium. |
| Technical Analysis | Identify trends and reversals | Volatile or trending markets | The ASX 200 shows signs of upward momentum. Using technical indicators like RSI and moving averages, you identify an entry point and buy call options. As the market trend continues, the options gain value, allowing you to close the position profitably. |
According to the ASX, the volume of exchange-traded options has remained steady, indicating a consistent interest in strategies like covered calls and protective puts among Australian traders.
3. How Can You Use Analytics Tools to Trade Options Effectively?
Analytics tools are indispensable for identifying profitable trades and managing risks. They help traders make informed decisions based on data rather than emotion. Key tools include:
- Volatility Indicators: Tools like the VIX (Volatility Index) provide insights into market uncertainty. High volatility often signals increased options premiums, which can be leveraged for strategies like covered calls or protective puts.
Example: Suppose the ASX 200 shows heightened volatility. You could sell options to capitalise on higher premiums or buy puts to hedge against a potential downturn. - Interactive Charts: Advanced charting tools available on platforms like Saxo Bank and CMC Markets allow you to overlay technical indicators such as moving averages, Bollinger Bands, and RSI (Relative Strength Index).
Example: You notice a stock forming a bullish breakout pattern on Saxo’s charting tool. This might signal a good entry point for a bull call spread. - Backtesting and Scenario Analysis: Platforms like Admirals and Interactive Brokers offer tools to test strategies using historical data. This allows you to refine your approach before committing real capital.
Pro Tip: Start with tools like moving averages for trend identification, then layer on volatility measures for a deeper understanding of market conditions.
4. What Should You Consider When Choosing an Options Broker?
Selecting the right broker is a critical decision that can affect your profitability and trading experience. Consider the following factors:
- ASIC Regulation:
- Ensure the broker is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to protect your funds and comply with Australian laws.
- Example: All the brokers mentioned in this guide, like eToro and AvaTrade, are ASIC-regulated, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Fees and Costs:
- Look beyond headline spreads and consider additional fees, such as commissions, inactivity fees, and withdrawal charges.
- Example: While Pepperstone offers low spreads, Saxo Bank charges higher fees but provides premium features suited for professional traders.
- Trading Tools and Features:
- A robust platform should offer advanced analytics, risk management tools, and educational resources.
- Example: CMC Markets provides direct ASX access with customisable risk tools, while eToro excels with its social trading feature for beginners.
- Demo Accounts and Customer Support:
- A demo account lets you practise risk-free. Reliable customer service ensures you’re supported when needed.
- Example: AvaTrade offers a demo account with educational webinars, ideal for those new to options trading.
Pro Tip: Test multiple brokers using demo accounts before committing real capital. This helps you find the platform that best suits your needs.
5. What Rules Do Successful Options Traders Follow?
Success in options trading requires discipline and strategy. The following rules are critical for long-term success:
- Position Sizing:
- Avoid overcommitting to a single trade by limiting risk to no more than 5% of your total capital.
- Example: If your portfolio is worth $10,000, each trade should risk no more than $500. This ensures you can recover from unexpected losses.
- Use Stop-Loss Orders:
- Predefine exit points to cap losses. Stop-loss orders automatically close a trade when it reaches a set level.
- Example: You buy an ASX-listed call option at $5. Set a stop-loss at $3 to limit losses if the market moves against you.
- Diversify Portfolios:
- Spread investments across different assets, industries, or strategies to minimise risk.
- Example: Instead of trading options on just ASX mining stocks, diversify into financials or global indices to balance sector-specific risks.
- Track and Review Performance:
- Keep a trading journal to evaluate past trades and identify areas for improvement.
- Example: Reviewing your journal might reveal a tendency to overtrade during high-volatility periods, prompting adjustments to your strategy.
- Stay Educated:
- Markets evolve, so staying informed about economic trends, regulations, and strategies is crucial.
- Example: Regularly reading resources like the ASX website or attending webinars from brokers like AvaTrade can keep you updated.
Pro Tip: Combining disciplined risk management with continuous learning will significantly increase your odds of success.
Key Takeaways
- Top Broker Overall: eToro stands out as the best options broker in Australia for 2025, prized for its user-friendly interface, competitive fees, and dual appeal to both beginners and experienced traders.
- Education and Tools: AvaTrade is notable for its extensive learning resources, making it ideal for beginners, while Saxo Bank offers advanced analytical tools for seasoned traders.
- Market Access: Brokers like Saxo Bank and Interactive Brokers provide extensive global market access, whereas CMC Markets offers direct options trading on the ASX, catering to those focusing on local markets.
- Cost Efficiency: Pepperstone is highlighted for its low-cost structure, making it attractive for traders looking to minimize expenses.
- Regulation and Security: All top brokers are ASIC-regulated, ensuring a secure trading environment compliant with Australian financial laws.
Start Trading
Join millions of traders worldwide on eToro's platform
- Trade stocks, crypto & ETFs
- Copy successful traders
- User-friendly platform
- FCA regulated
TSLA 
NVDA 
BTC 
XRP 
ETH 
DOGE Your capital is at risk.
FAQs
What makes eToro the best options broker in Australia for 2025?
Know your goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Research companies, market trends, and economic conditions. Diversify your portfolio and consider factors such as fees, taxes, and transaction costs.
Which broker offers the best educational resources for beginner options traders?
AvaTrade is the best broker for beginners due to its comprehensive range of educational tools, including tutorials, webinars, and a free demo account that allows new traders to practice without financial risk.
Which options broker provides the best access to global options markets?
Saxo Bank offers the broadest access to global options markets, with availability across over 30 international exchanges, making it an excellent choice for traders looking for global exposure.
Who should consider using Pepperstone for options trading?
Traders focused on minimizing trading costs should consider Pepperstone, known for its low spreads and no commission on options trading, which helps keep overall trading costs down.
What are the key factors to consider when choosing an options broker in Australia?
When selecting an options broker, traders should consider factors such as ASIC regulation, fee structure, range of tools and features, market access, and the availability of demo accounts and educational resources to enhance their trading experience.
