How does the 50% CGT discount work in Australia?

If you hold an asset for more than 12 months before selling, you only pay tax on 50% of the capital gain. For example, if you made a $20,000 profit on shares held for 2 years, only $10,000 is added to your taxable income. This discount applies to individuals and trusts, not companies.

Do I pay capital gains tax on cryptocurrency in Australia?

Yes. The ATO treats cryptocurrency as an asset for CGT purposes. When you sell, swap, or spend crypto, you trigger a CGT event. If you held the crypto for over 12 months, you're eligible for the 50% CGT discount. Your net capital gain is added to your taxable income and taxed at your marginal rate.

Capital Gains Tax Calculator Australia 2025–26

Budget 2026-27 update: the 50% CGT discount is being replaced from 1 July 2027. The Federal Budget on 12 May 2026 announced the 50% CGT discount will be replaced with CPI-based cost-base indexation + a 30% minimum tax on the real (inflation-adjusted) gain from 1 July 2027. Applies to individuals, partnerships and trusts (not companies). Gains accrued before 1 July 2027 keep the 50% discount under split-treatment rules. Main residence exemption, small business CGT concessions, and the 60% affordable housing discount are fully retained. This calculator uses the current FY 2025-26 rules (50% discount). Full breakdown: Federal Budget 2026-27.

How Capital Gains Tax Works in Australia

Capital gains tax applies when you sell an asset (shares, crypto, investment property) for more than you paid. The net capital gain is added to your regular taxable income and taxed at your marginal rate — not at a flat rate.

The 50% CGT Discount

If you're an individual and held the asset for more than 12 months, you only include 50% of the gain in your taxable income. This is one of the most significant tax concessions in Australia and makes a huge difference to your after-tax profit.

Cost Base

Your cost base isn't just the purchase price — it includes brokerage fees, legal costs, and any capital improvements. For investment property, it also includes stamp duty and conveyancing costs. Reducing your taxable gain with a complete cost base can save you thousands. Visit the ATO website for full details.

Methodology & sources

This calculator uses current published rates from Australian government and regulator sources. The result is an estimate for general guidance — it does not constitute personal financial advice. For decisions about your circumstances, consult a registered financial adviser, tax agent, or other professional. See editorial standards for how DecisionLab sources and updates its calculator data.

How Capital Gains Tax Works in Australia

The 50% CGT Discount

Cost Base

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Methodology & sources