Cryptocurrency adoption in Australia hits record high

New data from the 2025 Independent Reserve Cryptocurrency Index (IRCI) reveals a record high adoption of cryptocurrencies in Australia.

The report indicates that 32.5% of Australians currently own or have previously owned cryptocurrency, marking a significant growth in the market. Additionally, 95% of Australians are aware of at least one cryptocurrency. Adrian Przelozny, CEO of Independent Reserve, remarked, "The findings in our sixth annual IRCI clearly show that Australia's crypto market is coming into its own. Adoption is growing, investment strategies are evolving, and seasoned investors are seeing better profits."

Bitcoin has emerged as the most popular digital currency, with 70% of investors holding it. This trend is underscored by the fact that 57.3% of Australian crypto investors have reported making profits. Furthermore, 20.5% of these investors are committing at least AUD $500 each month to cryptocurrency investments, suggesting a strong confidence in the sector despite wider economic concerns.

Economic factors have deterred some potential investors, with 14.3% indicating they refrained from entering the crypto market due to the economic climate. However, there is optimism surrounding the acceptance of these digital assets, as 42.9% of Australians believe cryptocurrency will gain wider acceptance by businesses and individuals. Furthermore, 73.4% view Bitcoin as money, a store of value, or an investment asset.

On the global stage, the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States is having an impact on perceptions within the sector. "Globally, with Donald Trump's election as President of the United States, there is widespread anticipation that his pro-crypto policies will foster innovation and broader adoption of digital assets, and we're seeing current pricing reflect that global optimism," Przelozny stated.

The opinions on Trump's influence vary among Australians; 31% of IRCI respondents believe that Trump's presidency is beneficial for cryptocurrency, while a mere 8% feel it is detrimental. The majority remain neutral on this issue, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding his potential impact on the sector.

Regulatory challenges continue to pose difficulties locally, as Przelozny pointed out: "Locally, while the sector is experiencing robust growth, challenges in regulatory clarity and market volatility persist. The actions of traditional financial institutions, such as banks blocking or delaying crypto investment activities, highlight the need for clear and supportive regulation to ensure the sector's legitimacy and continued growth."

The IRCI report reveals that 19.3% of investors have faced obstacles from banks that either prevented the purchase of cryptocurrency or delayed sending money to cryptocurrency exchanges. This underscores the ongoing tension between traditional financial systems and the burgeoning digital currency market.

Przelozny concluded by reinforcing the evolving nature of the cryptocurrency market in Australia, "The 2025 IRCI findings reflect Australia's maturing crypto market. As the industry navigates the complex interplay of regulation, innovation, and adoption, its potential to reshape the traditional financial landscape remains strong."