IRCI 2025: 31% of Australians Now Hold Cryptocurrency – Where Is the Market Headed?

According to the latest Independent Reserve Cryptocurrency Index (IRCI) 2025, a record-breaking 31% of Australians now own some form of cryptocurrency. That’s nearly one in three adult Aussies.

Whether it is for the purposes of investing, saving, or simply exploring the tech behind blockchain, this surge in ownership shows how quickly the crypto landscape has shifted in just a few years.

But what does this growing adoption mean for the future of the crypto market? And where are we headed next?

This post will attempt to answer both questions.

What Is the IRCI Report?

The Independent Reserve Cryptocurrency Index (IRCI) is an annual survey that gauges Australia’s sentiment, knowledge, and behaviour around crypto. It’s one of the most respected barometers in the industry because it provides a clear, year-on-year look at how attitudes are changing.

To gain their insights, the IRCI analyses factors like:

• Ownership rates

• Confidence in long-term success

• Willingness to invest

• Understanding of crypto basics

Put simply, the IRCI helps us understand how crypto is maturing in the real world, and not just in tech or finance circles.

Key trends from the 2025 Report

It is clear there has been a steady upward trend in crypto confidence across the country, as highlighted by the cryptocurrency adoption trends 2025, from IRCI 2025.

Indeed, more Australians are seeing digital assets as a legitimate part of their financial portfolios, with growing interest, in particular, from both younger generations and experienced investors.

Some of the key data from the report shows:

• Ownership increased from 29% in 2024 to 31% in 2025.

• Over 50% of Gen Z and Millennials now own crypto.

• Confidence in the future of Bitcoin reached its highest level since 2021.

Aside from reflecting higher participation rates, these stats also represent the cultural shift that crypto is becoming part of Australia’s everyday financial landscape.

Bitcoin and Ethereum Still Rule the Roost

It probably won’t surprise you to discover that the report found Bitcoin to be Australia’s most commonly held digital asset, followed closely by Ethereum. These two blue-chip cryptos continue to dominate the conversation, especially among long-term investors who see them as digital gold and programmable money, respectively.

But it’s not just these big names that are drawing attention. The report also highlighted an increase in the adoption of stablecoin, with many Aussies using coins like USDC and Tether to manage volatility or participate in decentralised finance (DeFi) platforms. Altcoins such as Solana and XRP also saw a bump in interest.

This diversity shows that Aussie investors are branching out and exploring wider opportunities in the crypto space.

Exchange Preferences & Fee Awareness Are Changing

As more Australians become savvy crypto users, their criteria for selecting platforms to use are becoming more intentional. For instance, people are now more aware of fee structures, security measures, and regulatory compliance when choosing a trading platform.

In fact, according to the IRCI, there’s a noticeable shift among users toward regulated Australian exchanges that provide clear reporting and better user protection. As a result, many investors are also starting to shop around for platforms that offer fee transparency, especially during periods of high trading activity.

It is definitely worth taking the time to compare fee structures for major Australian crypto exchanges. Otherwise, you risk overpaying.

Regulation Is Shaping Investor Confidence

One of the main drivers behind Australia’s growing crypto adoption is regulatory clarity. Thanks to ASIC and other government bodies, more robust frameworks for crypto service providers have been introduced, which have helped increase trust among previously cautious investors.

From stricter licensing rules to increased focus on anti-money laundering, these steps are designed to strike a balance between protecting users and encouraging innovation. Additionally, the talk of a potential central bank digital currency (CBDC) is also keeping Australia well and truly on the global map for crypto development.

What’s Next for Crypto in Australia?

Given the shift towards crypto adoption in Australia, it is only natural to ask what is next. Well, here are some of the emerging trends it is worth keeping an eye on:

• Institutional investment: More Aussie super funds and financial firms are dipping their toes into crypto, particularly with ETFs and spot Bitcoin exposure.

• Staking and yield strategies: As interest in DeFi grows, staking has become a popular way to earn passive income from crypto holdings.

• Education matters: The IRCI found that Australians who understood crypto basics were significantly more confident in their investments.

• Web3 development: Startups and developers are flocking to build in the blockchain and Web3 space, thanks to the support available from local incubators and VC firms.

Is 31% Ownership the Tipping Point?

With nearly a third of the population now owning digital assets, the report illustrates that Australia has reached a new stage in its crypto journey.

Still, it is worth pointing out that this doesn’t mean every Aussie should go all-in. Like any investment, crypto comes with risks; for example, prices are volatile, scams are still around, and regulation is evolving. Therefore, for those who are interested in doing so, it is important to do their research, stay informed, and use reputable platforms.

That said, the potential is enormous. So, whether you're holding Bitcoin for the long haul, experimenting with NFTs, or earning interest on stablecoins, there’s probably a space in crypto for all levels of interest and experience.