IC Markets vs Tickmill: Australia Broker Comparison (2026)

For Australia traders, trading costs are a critical factor. IC Markets offers a Raw Spread account with spreads from 0.0 pips and a commission of $3.50 per lot per side (AUD). Tickmill's Raw account has spreads from 0.0 pips but charges $2 per side per lot, making it slightly cheaper for high-volume traders. On standard accounts, IC Markets has spreads around 0.6 pips with no commission, while Tickmill's Classic account offers spreads from 1.6 pips. For scalpers and day traders in Australia, IC Markets provides better overall cost efficiency due to tighter spreads on major pairs like EUR/USD and GBP/USD. However, Tickmill's lower commission can benefit those trading larger volumes. Always consider your trading frequency and lot size when evaluating costs.

IC Markets excels in platform variety, offering MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and TradingView. This is ideal for Australia traders who want advanced charting, algorithmic trading via Expert Advisors (EAs), or social trading. Tickmill provides MT4, MT5, and a web-based platform, but lacks cTrader and TradingView. For Australia traders who rely on custom indicators or automated strategies, IC Markets is the better choice. Tickmill's platforms are reliable and beginner-friendly, but may not satisfy experienced traders seeking diverse tools. Both brokers offer mobile apps for iOS and Android, ensuring you can trade on the go.

IC Markets is known for its ultra-fast execution speeds, averaging under 40 milliseconds, thanks to its Equinix NY4 data centre and no-dealing desk (NDD) model. Tickmill also offers fast execution (under 50 ms) with a similar NDD setup. For Australia traders, low latency is crucial for scalping and high-frequency trading. Both brokers perform well, but IC Markets has a slight edge due to its deeper liquidity pool and advanced infrastructure. Tickmill's execution is still excellent for most trading styles, including EAs.

Both IC Markets and Tickmill are regulated by ASIC, providing Australia traders with strong investor protection under Australian financial laws. ASIC requires brokers to maintain client funds in segregated accounts, adhere to leverage limits (1:30 for retail clients), and undergo regular audits. IC Markets also holds licenses from CySEC and FCA, while Tickmill is regulated by FCA and CySEC as well. For Australia traders, ASIC regulation means your funds are safe and you have access to dispute resolution through the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). This dual regulation adds an extra layer of security, especially for high-net-worth traders.

Depositing and withdrawing funds is seamless for Australia traders at both brokers. IC Markets and Tickmill accept AUD deposits via BPAY, POLi, Bank Transfer, and Credit Card. IC Markets also supports PayPal, while Tickmill offers Skrill and Neteller. Minimum deposits are $200 AUD for IC Markets and $100 AUD for Tickmill. Withdrawals are typically processed within 1-2 business days for most methods, with BPAY and Bank Transfer taking slightly longer. Both brokers do not charge internal fees for deposits or withdrawals, but your bank may apply fees for international transfers. POLi and Credit Card deposits are instant, allowing you to start trading immediately. For Australia traders, the availability of local payment methods like BPAY and POLi makes funding your account convenient and cost-effective.

For Muslim traders in Australia, both IC Markets and Tickmill offer swap-free Islamic accounts that comply with Sharia law. These accounts do not charge or pay overnight interest (swap) on positions held overnight. IC Markets provides Islamic accounts on its Standard and Raw Spread accounts, while Tickmill offers them on all account types. To open an Islamic account, simply request it during registration or contact customer support. Both brokers require that you do not hold positions for extended periods without trading to avoid abuse. This feature is particularly beneficial for Australia traders who follow Islamic finance principles and want to trade forex without incurring interest.

Both brokers offer 24/5 customer support in English, with response times typically under 30 minutes via live chat. IC Markets provides phone support in multiple languages, while Tickmill focuses on email and live chat. For Australia traders, IC Markets has a local phone number, making it easier to get help during Australian business hours. Tickmill's support is efficient but lacks a dedicated Australia line. Overall, IC Markets edges ahead for localised support, but both brokers are reliable for resolving queries quickly.