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Buying crypto in australia? here’s what under 18s need to know

Buying Crypto in Australia? | Challenges for Minors Amid Growing Interest

By

Carlos Ramirez

Apr 1, 2025, 08:49 PM

Updated

Apr 2, 2025, 04:02 PM

A teenager analyzing digital currency trends with a laptop and phone, representing the journey of under-18s in the crypto market.

As cryptocurrency fever sweeps across Australia, a troubling dilemma arises for young potential investors under 18. Many youth eager to dive into the digital currency market are stymied by strict age restrictions, raising questions about market accessibility and safety. Recent discussions reveal frustrations and creative strategies from a community determined to seek alternatives despite the hurdles.

Amid the buzz surrounding digital currencies, the challenges for those under the legal buying age are evident. One user captured a common feeling, expressing, "I can't find any place where I can buy some." This sentiment resonates with frustrated teenagers hoping to make their first investments. They're exploring various methods, with some turning to unconventional strategies that push boundaries.

Navigating the Crypto Terrain

Creative Solutions for Young Investors
Peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms provide a glimmer of hope for underage traders. Many young Australians are creatively navigating restrictions by trading personal items or convincing friends to swap cash for crypto. A commentator advised, "Look for any P2P platforms, it might just be your ticket to crypto!"

Interestingly, a recent suggestion offered another workaround: “Open a minor trust account in any Aussie stock brokerages like CommSec or Pearler.” With the help of an adult, minors can fund their accounts and access trading opportunities, including investing in IBTC, the only Bitcoin ETF available in Australia. This route appears to be gaining traction as a viable option.

However, the conversation took a curious turn with mentions of “back-alley crypto trading.” One user narrated their covert experiences, stating, "I do all of my high-speed crypto trades in person... using a system of interconnected back alleys...you need to bring your public PGP key for identity verification." While this approach raises eyebrows, it highlights the lengths some enthusiasts might consider to engage with the market.

Economic and Regulatory Insights

Understanding Economic Barriers
Users remain divided about how challenging it is to enter the crypto scene. Some emphasize that "You need collateral for trades," emphasizing the need for initial capital, while others suggest leveraging family connections for account creation as a workaround.

Chat surrounding platforms like Coinspot is also prevalent, with individuals noting concerns over Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations when opening accounts. It’s a timely reminder that while many are eager to trade, navigating compliance remains a significant hurdle.

Community Sentiment and Current Status

As young Australians grapple with traditional trading constraints, the community’s resourcefulness shines through. Motivated by a mix of excitement and caution, they explore unorthodox methods to make their mark in cryptocurrency. The prevailing sentiment remains hopeful yet realistic about the barriers they face.

Takeaways to Keep in Mind:

As the discussion evolves through April, the challenge of cryptocurrency accessibility for minors not only reflects their barriers but also showcases a youthful determination to reshape their financial futures in the bustling crypto landscape.