On our Trust Score, Independent Reserve edges it (7.4 vs 8.1). Across the full comparison BTC Markets wins 3 categories and Independent Reserve wins 10. But "better" depends on what you need — Independent Reserve is cheaper to trade, BTC Markets lists more coins, and regulation, support and app quality may matter more to you than the headline score.

Independent Reserve has the lower market (maker) fee — 0.85% on BTC Markets versus 0.5% on Independent Reserve. Remember that "instant buy" costs more than a market order on both because of the built-in spread, so the real cost depends on how you trade.

BTC Markets is registered with AUSTRAC and Independent Reserve is registered with AUSTRAC. AUSTRAC registration is a legal requirement for AUD trading and covers anti-money-laundering, not consumer protection. BTC Markets has recorded 1 security incident and Independent Reserve 0. Neither is covered by a government guarantee, so use 2FA and self-custody for long-term holdings.

Yes — many Australians keep accounts on more than one exchange, for example to access different coins, compare prices, or spread counterparty risk. Just remember each account is a separate KYC signup, and every disposal (including moving between platforms via a sale) can be a taxable event.