Tax on gold in Australia: GST and CGT calculator
Investment-grade gold, silver and platinum carry no GST for a private buyer; palladium and collector coins carry 10%. When you sell, the gain is a capital gain, halved if you held the metal for at least 12 months. The calculator shows both for Australian residents.
Gold and silver tax calculator
Enter what you bought and, if you like, what you sell it for. You get the VAT or GST in the price and an estimate of the tax on the sale.
Australian rules for individuals
When you buy
- No GST on investment bullion: gold of at least 99.5%, silver of at least 99.9% and platinum of at least 99% fineness, in investment form.
- 10% GST on palladium, jewellery, lower fineness and numismatic or collector coins.
When you sell
- Capital gain: sale price minus cost base.
- 50% discount for residents who held the metal at least 12 months (the days of buying and selling do not count).
- Marginal rate: the taxable gain is added to your income, plus the 2% Medicare levy.
- Frequent buying and selling can make the profit ordinary income instead of a capital gain.
Official sources: ATO GSTR 2003/10 (precious metals) · ATO: CGT discount · ATO: tax rates for Australian residents. Rules checked on 12 Oct 2026.
FAQ
Is there GST on gold bullion in Australia?
No, if it is gold of at least 99.5% fineness in investment form. Sales after the refiner's first sale are input taxed, so a private buyer pays no GST. Collector coins and jewellery carry 10% GST.
Is there GST on silver bullion?
No for silver of at least 99.9% fineness in investment form. Lower fineness silver and collector coins carry 10% GST.
Do you pay capital gains tax on gold in Australia?
Yes. The gain is added to your taxable income. If you held the gold for at least 12 months, only half of the gain is taxed.
Is palladium GST free?
No. Palladium is not a precious metal under the GST Act, so 10% GST applies.
metalsradar.com compares precious metals prices and does not sell metal. This page explains the general rules for private individuals and is not tax advice. Your tax depends on your whole situation, so check it with a tax adviser or the tax office before you buy or sell.