I think DH has access to eTrade Pro for free through the bank. The reason I give the warning is because DH is finding that many of his amatuer trader clients are loosing money due to inexperience and greed. The most basic of advice is to at the very least stick to top 100 ASX companies unless you are very experienced. Yes they are expensive but they significantly diminish risk. DH had done ok so far but has also witnessed colleagues lose big. These fellows (DH's work mates) are on good incomes and can afford a bit of play money... but for a Mum & Dad investor, typically in their vulnerable retirement years... or for a young family starting out it can be a very risky thing to do unless you have several thousand that you are prepared to lose.