Crypto cost guides

Swapping crypto through AUD: the cost of both trades

Australian exchanges usually swap one coin for another in two trades: sell for AUD, then buy. Each trade has its own fee and spread.

Worked example: BTC to ETH

Selling 0.02 BTC at a A$100,000 bid with a 0.5% fee leaves A$1,990.00. That buys ETH at a A$5,000 ask with another 0.5% fee: 0.3960199 ETH. Together the two fees come to A$19.90, before either spread.

Why the route matters

The cheapest place to sell BTC isn't always the cheapest place to buy ETH, but moving AUD between exchanges takes time. The swap tool compares completing both trades at the same exchange.

Tax

The ATO treats exchanging one crypto for another as a disposal, so a swap is a capital gains event even though you never held the AUD in your bank. This is general information, not tax advice. For your own situation, read the ATO's guidance or ask a registered tax agent.

Compare swap routes between BTC, ETH and SOL

Related guides

• Spreads and trading fees: what's the difference?
• Crypto records for Australian tax

Further reading: Australian Taxation Office: crypto asset investments. Examples use round illustrative prices, not live quotes; the tools use live order books. General information, not financial, investment or tax advice.