International Shares

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A whole new world of investment opportunities

With CommSec International, it's easy to tap into the world's leading share markets. Go from New York to London, and even Japan, at the click of a button. 

With online access to a range of free research tools and real-time data, you can confidently trade in many global markets of your choice. You can also monitor your portfolio online, stay up to date with market news, and much more all in one place.  

Our 24-hour support desk on U.S. market days means you’ll have the support you need, when you need it. 

How it works

Accessing global markets with a CommSec International Shares Account has never been simpler. 

Log in to CommSec

Navigate to ‘Portfolio’ and select your ‘International Shares Account’

Select ‘Transfer funds’ to transfer funds from your Commonwealth Direct Investment Account (CDIA)¹ in real time into your International Wallet 

Select ‘Launch Platform’ to place trades, monitor your portfolio, research markets and more

You also have the choice of switching to an International Shares Plus Account so you can tailor your own investing experience. 

With an International Shares Plus Account, you can hold and manage foreign currencies in your International Wallet 

Feature	International Shares	International Shares Plus
Foreign exchange conversion fee	0.55%	0.55%
U.S. brokerage²	USD$5.00 Or 0.12% (whichever is greater)	USD$9.95 Or 0.20% (whichever is greater)
Access to trade online in 13 global markets	✔	✔
Transfer AUD in and out of your International Wallet	✔	✔
Automatic foreign exchange conversions	✔	✔
Can manage your own foreign exchange conversions	✘	✔
Multicurrency wallet	✘	✔

You can request to switch to an International Shares Plus Account from an International Shares Account at any time by logging in to CommSec > Navigate to Settings > Create a Request > Type Switch to International Shares Plus and follow the prompts. 

Get started

Ready to tap into the world's leading global markets? Our streamlined application process can have you trading internationally within minutes. 

If you're an existing CommSec customer: 

Apply now >

If you're not a CommSec customer:  You'll first need to apply for a CommSec Australian Shares account & CDIA 

Join now >

See here for more info on who can apply for an International Shares Account. 

Benefits

Diversification

Through CommSec, build your portfolio by investing in 13 international markets online and gain access to sectors that are better represented internationally such as artificial intelligence and aerospace³.

Access the biggest global companies 

Invest in the global brands you know and love such as Apple, Shell, Shopify, Toyota³ and much more! 

Fractional shares

Fractional shares allow you to invest smaller amounts, so you don’t have to pay the value of a full share. Keep growing your portfolio and invest in select U.S. and European shares you might not have considered before. Find out more about fractional shares.

24-hour support 

Our International Desk is always here to help. Open 24-hours on U.S. Market Days, support will be there when you need it. 

Simplified access to trade on your funds 

With CommSec, you can enjoy being able to trade on funds from sell trades before they settle, and if you need a top up you can transfer funds in and out⁴ of your account, in real time. 

Risks

All investments come with some degree of risk, so it’s important to do your research before you commit to anything.

Currency risk 

As international securities are denominated in a currency other than Australian dollars, the value of your investment may be affected by changes in currency exchange rates. 

Political and regulatory risk

International shares are held by an international custodian, and are subject to risks relating to political, economic and regulatory changes in the country of the custodian or stock exchange. 

Taxation risk

Taxation implications can be different from investing in Australian securities and may vary depending on your individual circumstances.⁵

Note: You will be asked to complete a U.S tax form as part of the application process. This form is valid for 3 years (unless there is a change in circumstances). 

Rates and fees

Brokerage fees

Foreign exchange

Account fees

Who can apply?

You can apply for an International Shares Account if you: 

Are 18 years or older with an Australian residential and postal address; 
Are an Individual and/or Joint account holder, with an existing CommSec Australian Shares Account in the same name; and, 
Have a CDIA as your nominated settlement account

 You'll also need:  A valid photo ID -- this can be an Australian Driver's Licence, Passport, Medicare card. It cannot be expired.   This account is available to and for the benefit of Australian residents only. If you are a U.S. Person, or not residing in Australia, we will not be able to open an International Shares Account for you at this time. Limitations may also apply to applicants with citizenship or tax residency in countries not accepted by our International Custodian. 

Company, Trust and SMSF account structures are not supported at this stage but will be coming soon, so keep an eye out! 