Jasmine Birtles
Your money-making expert. Financial journalist, TV and radio personality.
Looking to diversify your portfolio by heading down under? Whether you’re after mining giants, green energy pioneers or some of the world’s top banks, Australian stocks can offer a refreshing (and potentially profitable) twist to your investment mix.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to invest in Australian shares from the UK in 2025, including buying individual stocks, investing through ETFs, and which companies are worth keeping an eye on.
Australia is rich in natural resources, a hub for tech innovation, and home to some of the world’s most stable and profitable banking institutions. It’s a country that often flies under the radar for UK investors, but it deserves a closer look, especially in 2025!
What makes Australia particularly appealing is its economic resilience. While many developed nations have struggled through recessions and global shocks, Australia has consistently shown its ability to bounce back with surprising strength, supported by strong exports and prudent financial regulation.
One of the key reasons investors are drawn to Australian stocks is the country’s vast reserves of natural resources.
Australia is a major global exporter of iron ore, gold, and increasingly, lithium, a crucial material in the production of electric vehicle batteries.
As global demand for clean energy and green technology rises, Australia stands to benefit significantly from this shift.
The country also boasts a stable, well-regulated economy. Strong governance, transparent financial reporting, and a reliable legal system make it a relatively safe place for foreign investors.
Overall, with a strong mix of resources, innovation, and financial stability, Australia offers a great opportunity for UK investors who want to diversify their portfolio beyond the usual suspects.
Now that you understand why Australia is worth looking at, let’s take a look at how to invest in Australian stocks.
You can invest directly in Aussie companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). The ASX is home to over 2,000 companies, including mining titans, financial powerhouses and innovative startups.
Choose a broker with access to international markets: Look for platforms that let you trade on the ASX. Good UK options in 2025 include:
Interactive Brokers
Saxo Markets
IG Group
Set up your account and verify your ID: You’ll need to provide the usual documents, ID, proof of address, and possibly some financial background info.
Fund your account: Most brokers accept GBP deposits, which you’ll need to convert into AUD to trade on the ASX.
Search for the stock: Use the ASX ticker (e.g. BHP, CBA, APT) and place your order. You can usually set limit or market orders.
Watch those FX fees: Currency exchange rates and broker fees can eat into your returns, so compare carefully.
It’s a good idea to do a big of digging into the best Australian stocks and shares to buy as a UK investor. Here is an overview of some of the most popular options (although this list is not definitive!)
BHP Group (ASX: BHP): Global mining giant, heavy on iron ore and copper.
Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA): A top dividend-paying bank.
Pilbara Minerals (ASX: PLS): Big player in the lithium boom.
Fortescue Metals Group (ASX: FMG): Mining with a green energy angle.
WiseTech Global (ASX: WTC): Logistics and supply chain software firm making international waves.
OUR FEATURED BROKER XTB IS OFFERING 0% COMMISSIONS!
Access thousands of stocks and shares from around the world and pay 0% commissions.
If the thought of picking individual stocks seems a bit overwhelming, ETFs could be a better option. These funds give you instant exposure to dozens (or even hundreds) of Aussie companies, without needing to navigate foreign exchanges or choose winners.
Easier to buy through UK platforms like Hargreaves Lansdown, AJ Bell, or Trading 212.
Lower risk (thanks to diversification)
No need to convert currency yourself (many are listed in GBP or USD)
Great for beginners or passive investors
iShares MSCI Australia ETF (IQQA): Gives you exposure to the top 60–70 Aussie companies.
Lyxor Australia ASX ETF: Tracks the performance of the largest Aussie stocks.
SPDR S&P/ASX 200 ETF (STW): Follows the top 200 companies on the ASX (some brokers may let you access this even if it’s listed in Australia).
Vanguard FTSE Pacific ex-Japan ETF: Includes a chunk of Australia alongside other Pacific economies.
Also read: The Best Australian ETFs to Buy in 2025
Unlock over 800 global ETFs with 0% commissions.
Mind the time difference: The ASX operates during Aussie business hours, so trading happens overnight UK time.
Tax matters: Dividends from Australian stocks may be subject to withholding tax. You might be able to reduce this through a tax treaty claim form, check with your broker or tax advisor.
Diversify globally: While Australia offers exciting opportunities, remember it’s just one part of the world. Don’t put all your eggs in one hemisphere.
Australia offers more than sunshine and surf—it’s also a country full of resource-rich companies, forward-thinking tech, and high-yield dividends. Whether you buy individual shares or choose ETFs, investing in Australia can add a bit of bounce to your portfolio in 2025.
As always, do your research, watch the fees, and don’t invest more than you can afford to lose. If you’re unsure, speak to a financial adviser.
If you’re keen to keep on top of the latest investing news why not sign up to our fortnightly MoneyMagpie Investing Newsletter? It’s free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Disclaimer: MoneyMagpie is not a licensed financial advisor and therefore information found here including opinions, commentary, suggestions or strategies are for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only. This should not be considered as financial advice. Anyone thinking of investing should conduct their own due diligence. Companies listed above are not necessarily endorsed by Money Magpie. When investing your capital is at risk.
Direct to your inbox every week
New data capture form 2023
"*" indicates required fields
WELL, THAT IS LOGICAL!
AUSTRALIA NOW IS A SAFE TERRITORY NOT ONLY IN ESOTERICAL, BUT ALSO IN POLITICAL SENSE!
TRUMP HAS A MATERIAL FOR THINKING!