Best Investment Apps Australia: Raiz vs Spaceship vs CommSec (2026)

Australians have more investment app options than ever in 2026. Whether you're a complete beginner wanting to invest spare change or an experienced investor looking for a cost-effective trading platform, this guide compares the most popular options — including Raiz, Spaceship, CommSec, and several alternatives.

What to Look for in an Investment App

Fees: Even small percentage fees compound significantly over time.
Investment options: Australian shares, international shares, ETFs, and managed funds.
Minimum investment: Some apps allow you to start with $1; others require $500+.
CHESS sponsorship: Shares held under CHESS are registered in your name, not the broker's.
Ease of use: For beginners especially, a simple, well-designed interface matters.

Raiz Invest Australia Review

Raiz automatically rounds up your everyday purchases and invests the difference into a diversified portfolio of ETFs. Fees: $3.50/month for balances under $20,000; 0.275% p.a. above $20,000. The flat monthly fee makes Raiz expensive for small balances — $3.50/month on a $500 balance equals 8.4% p.a. in fees. Best for: Beginners who want automated, passive investing with no active decisions required.

Spaceship Voyager Australia Review

Spaceship offers two main portfolios: a diversified index portfolio and a tech-heavy "Universe" portfolio. Fees: No fees on balances under $100. Above $100: 0.10% p.a. for the Index portfolio or 0.20% p.a. for the Universe portfolio — among the lowest fees of any Australian investment app. Best for: Young investors who want simple, low-cost exposure to global markets.

CommSec Pocket Review

CommSec Pocket is the simplified version of CommSec's full platform, offering 7 themed ETFs for beginner investors. Fees: $2 per trade for investments up to $1,000; 0.2% for investments above $1,000. Best for: Beginners who want simplicity and the reassurance of a major bank behind the platform.

Full CommSec Platform

CommSec's full trading platform offers access to ASX-listed shares, ETFs, managed funds, and international markets. Fees: $10 per trade for investments up to $1,000; $19.95 for investments up to $10,000. Best for: Investors who want direct share ownership and CHESS sponsorship for larger trades.

Other Notable Investment Apps in Australia

Stake: No brokerage for US stock trading. Popular for NYSE and NASDAQ access.
SelfWealth: Flat $9.50 per trade for ASX shares with CHESS sponsorship.
Pearler: $6.50 per trade with CHESS sponsorship and automatic investment scheduling.
Vanguard Personal Investor: Direct access to Vanguard ETFs and managed funds.

Comparison Summary

Best for beginners with small amounts: Spaceship or Raiz
Best for low fees: Spaceship, Pearler, or SelfWealth
Best for US stocks: Stake
Best for ASX with CHESS: SelfWealth or Pearler
Best for simplicity and trust: CommSec Pocket

Which Investment App Should You Use?

For most Australian beginners, Spaceship Voyager or CommSec Pocket are excellent starting points. As your portfolio grows, platforms like SelfWealth or Pearler offer better value for active, CHESS-sponsored investing. The most important thing is to start — even with a small amount — and contribute regularly.

This is general information only and not personal financial advice.