ASX Gold ETFs for 2025: A Complete Comparison Guide for Australian Investors

Why Gold ETFs Matter Right Now

Gold has hit unprecedented peaks in 2025, fueled by economic uncertainty and geopolitical risks across multiple regions. For portfolio diversification, Australian gold ETFs offer an elegant solution—they provide exposure to precious metals without the headaches of physical storage, insurance, or logistics. Whether you’re targeting physical bullion or mining company stocks, the ASX hosts several quality options worth considering.

Physical Gold ETPs: Direct Exposure Without the Hassle

If your strategy centers on holding actual gold, these Australian gold ETF products track the physical commodity directly:

Global X Physical Gold (ASX:GOLD) leads the pack with AU$4.69 billion in assets. Trading at AU$46.96 per unit, this ETP (formerly ETFS Physical Gold) stores gold in JPMorgan Chase’s London vault. The 0.4% management fee is reasonable for the security and convenience offered. One unique feature: you can redeem shares for physical gold bars, though the AU$1,000 redemption fee makes this practical only for larger holdings.

Perth Mint Gold Structured Product (ASX:PMGOLD) stands out with AU$1.61 billion under management and a government guarantee backing every ounce. At AU$51.17 per unit, it tracks international gold prices in Australian dollars. The standout feature? A mere 0.15% management fee—the lowest among Australian gold ETFs on the ASX. This makes it exceptionally cost-effective for long-term holders.

BetaShares Gold Bullion ETF (ASX:QAU) manages AU$1.08 billion and prices at AU$26.91 per unit. Like other physical gold products, it’s backed by London-stored bullion through JPMorgan Chase. The 0.59% fee is mid-range, and note that you receive cash equivalents when selling, not physical metal.

VanEck Gold Bullion ETF (ASX:NUGG) offers AU$150.39 million in assets and prices at AU$50.78. Established in late 2022, it uniquely sources bullion from Australian producers. The 0.25% management fee keeps costs down while maintaining local supply chain benefits.

iShares Physical Gold ETF (ASX:GLDN), launched in October 2023, manages AU$267.64 million and trades at AU$40.67. It delivers spot price exposure with one of the lowest fee structures at 0.18%, making it competitive for investors planning to hold beyond five years.

Mining-Focused Gold ETFs: Company Exposure Strategy

Prefer betting on gold producers rather than the commodity itself? These Australian gold ETF options provide that alternative:

VanEck Gold Miners ETF (ASX:GDX) stands as the larger mining-focused vehicle with AU$916.64 million under management and a AU$89.60 unit price. Its portfolio spans global giants—Newmont comprises 13.56% of holdings, Agnico Eagle Mines at 11.85%, and Wheaton Precious Metals at 7.52%. Australian exposure includes Northern Star Resources (3%) and Evolution Mining (1.83%). The 0.53% fee is reasonable, and the ETF pays annual dividends (AU$0.63 per share in July).

Betashares Global Gold Miners ETF (ASX:MNRS) manages AU$121.38 million at AU$10.46 per unit. It focuses on major non-Australian mining companies, with Newmont at 8.7%, Barrick Mining at 8.3%, and Agnico Eagle at 7.6%. The 0.57% management fee funds exposure to global mining operations.

Choosing Your Australian Gold ETF

The Australian gold ETF landscape offers something for every strategy. Seeking ultra-low costs and government backing? Perth Mint Gold at 0.15% is hard to beat. Wanting pure physical gold with maximum flexibility? Global X Physical Gold dominates in assets and features. Looking to diversify into mining companies? VanEck Gold Miners ETF provides the deepest exposure with solid dividend yields. Consider your investment horizon, cost sensitivity, and whether you prefer commodity or equity exposure when selecting your Australian gold ETF for 2025.