What is Ethereum (ETH)?
Ethereum is a global, decentralised platform for digital money and applications. As the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency, ETH powers thousands of finance, gaming, and utility applications. Unlike Bitcoin, which focuses on value transfer, Ethereum enables programmable contracts, known as smart contracts, so users can store, buy, or trade Ethereum and other digital assets without third-party oversight. ETH also serves as the required payment, or ‘gas fee’, to run these applications, with fee levels determined by network demand.
How Ethereum Works
The Ethereum blockchain operates as a distributed ledger, where transactions and smart contracts are recorded across a global network. Smart contracts allow automated, trustless execution of agreements, making it easy for users to buy Ethereum and leverage applications without centralised control.
Gas Fees
Gas fees are small payments made in ETH to compensate for computational work that powers transactions or smart contracts. Their prices fluctuate, a higher demand means higher fees, which is important for anyone looking to buy Ethereum or interact with busy DeFi platforms.
Ethereum’s Ecosystem
Ethereum’s open platform underpins much of decentralised finance, token creation, and digital gaming, all accessible directly on its blockchain. Australians can buy ETH to participate in these diverse services or use ETH to pay transaction costs.
Benefits of Ethereum
Ethereum offers security through decentralization, transparency with public verified ledgers, and flexibility for building new financial technologies. These attributes support a vibrant and resilient market for those seeking to buy Ethereum or leverage its growing ecosystem.



