Navigating the world of Bitcoin can be challenging. The ability to separate valuable insights from the noise takes time, patience, and trusted resources. Here are some of my favourite resources over the years that I personally use and recommend.
Where to Buy Bitcoin
There are two Bitcoin-only exchanges operating in Australia that I use and consider worth exploring: Amber and HardBlock.
Amber is a mobile-first platform with a polished app experience. It offers features like automated buy-the-dip orders, recurring buys, and flexible pricing tiers for larger purchases. It supports Lightning withdrawals and has an active community. Amber also offers a vault service for those who want additional custody options. New users who sign up and deposit more than $100 receive $21 in bitcoin as a bonus. If you spend most of your time on your phone and want a feature-rich experience, Amber is well suited. Sign up here.
HardBlock is a desktop-focused exchange with a straightforward interface. It keeps things simple: competitive spot pricing, low withdrawal fees, and fast settlement. HardBlock also offers a vault service for users looking for managed custody. There’s no clutter, no unnecessary features. If you prefer buying from a computer and want to move your bitcoin to self-custody without paying excessive fees, HardBlock delivers. Sign up here.
Both platforms are Australian-owned, Bitcoin-only, and offer strong customer support. They each take a different approach, so it comes down to how you prefer to buy.
How to Secure Bitcoin
One of Bitcoin’s key strengths is the ability to securely hold and manage your own funds without relying on third parties—a powerful feature that lets you send Bitcoin to anyone, anywhere, anytime, without needing permission or facing interference.
However, being your own bank comes with the responsibility of securely managing your Bitcoin. I believe that with some education and guidance, anyone can—and should—take control of their Bitcoin through self-custody.
That’s why I’ve teamed up with Bitcoin Mentor, led by the world’s top Bitcoin educator, BTC Sessions, to offer self-custody services in Australia. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user looking to level up, we’ll meet you where you are and help ensure your Bitcoin is secure for you and future generations.
Where to Learn About Bitcoin
It takes about 100 hours of learning before Bitcoin “clicks”. That’s typically the minimum investment of time needed to truly appreciate all of Bitcoin’s many facets. I’ve found various books to be most instructive in my journey. There are numerous credible, informative Bitcoin focused books available at Konsensys Network worth checking out. My favourites:
- Layered Money – Nik Bhatia
- The Sovereign Individual – James Dale Davidson and William Rees-Mogg
- The Bitcoin Handbook – Anil Patel
- The Bitcoin Standard – Saifedean Ammous