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How to Sell Shares in Australia: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
13 Oct 2026
If you’re new to investing, the process of selling shares can seem a bit overwhelming. The good news is that once you understand the steps, it’s actually quite straightforward.
Whether you’re cashing out an investment, rebalancing your portfolio, or selling inherited shares, this guide will walk you through how to sell shares in Australia from start to finish.
Step 1: Confirm What Shares You Own
Before you can sell, you need to know exactly what you hold.
Check:
- Company name and ticker (for listed shares)
- Number of shares
- Whether they’re broker-sponsored (HIN) or issuer-sponsored (SRN)
You can find this information on your holding statement or through your broker account.
Step 2: Decide How You Want to Sell
There are two main ways to sell shares in Australia.
Through a Broker (Most Common)
- Online platforms like sell my shares
- Fast and easy to place orders
Through a Share Sale Service
- Useful for older or inherited shares
- Can assist with paperwork and transfers
For most beginners, using an online broker is the simplest option.
Step 3: Set Up or Access Your Brokerage Account
If your shares are broker-sponsored, they’ll already be linked to your account.
If not, you may need to:
- Open a brokerage account
- Link your shares using your SRN
- Complete identity verification (KYC)
This is a key step in learning how to sell shares in Australia.
Step 4: Choose the Type of Sell Order
When placing a trade, you’ll need to choose how your shares are sold.
Market Order:
- Sells immediately at the current market price
- Fast execution
Limit Order:
- Sets a minimum price you’re willing to accept
- More control, but may not execute immediately
Beginners often use market orders for simplicity, but limit orders can help maximise returns.
Step 5: Place the Sell Order
Once everything is set up:
- Log into your brokerage account
- Select the shares you want to sell
- Enter the number of shares
- Choose your order type
- Confirm the transaction
After placing the order, it will be sent to the market for execution.
Step 6: Wait for the Trade to Settle
Selling shares doesn’t mean you get paid instantly.
Settlement Period:
- Typically T+2 (two business days after the trade)
After settlement, the funds will be transferred to your linked bank account.
Step 7: Understand the Costs Involved
There are a few costs to consider when selling.
Common Fees:
- Brokerage fees
- Potential account fees
- Currency conversion (if applicable)
These will slightly reduce your final return.
Step 8: Consider Tax Implications
Selling shares may trigger capital gains tax (CGT).
Key Points:
- You pay tax on any profit made
- Holding shares for over 12 months may qualify for a CGT discount
- Losses can offset gains
It’s a good idea to keep records and speak to an accountant if needed.
Step 9: Check for Dividends or Entitlements
Before selling, check if you’re eligible for any upcoming benefits.
Examples:
- Dividends
- Bonus shares
- Rights issues
Selling before certain dates may mean missing out.
Step 10: Keep Records of the Sale
Good record-keeping is important for both tracking and tax purposes.
Keep:
- Trade confirmation
- Purchase and sale prices
- Dates of transactions
This helps when calculating gains or losses later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When learning how to sell shares in Australia, beginners often make these mistakes:
- Selling without checking fees
- Using market orders in volatile conditions
- Forgetting about tax implications
- Not confirming ownership details (SRN/HIN)
Avoiding these can help you get better outcomes.
Final Thoughts
Selling shares in Australia is a straightforward process once you understand the steps.
From confirming your holdings to placing a trade and receiving your funds, each stage plays a role in ensuring a smooth transaction.
By following this step-by-step guide on how to sell shares in Australia, you can sell with confidence and make informed decisions about your investments.
