The best Australian shares to buy in 2026

Let's see why these could be among the best Australian shares to buy now.

| More on:
A woman wearing dark clothing and sporting a few tattoos and piercings holds a phone and a takeaway coffee cup as she strolls under the Sydney Harbour Bridge which looms in the background.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

If you are looking for some of the best Australian shares to buy for when the market reopens, then read on!

Listed below are three shares that could be top picks for investors after the public holiday.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

While recent years have been underwhelming, CSL continues to set the standard for Australian shares operating on a global stage.

The biotech giant's plasma collection network and biotechnology operations form a system that is extraordinarily difficult to replicate. This creates a natural barrier to competition and supports long-term demand for its therapies, which are tied to essential healthcare needs rather than economic cycles.

What often gets overlooked is how CSL reinvests in its business. Capacity expansion, research and development, and operational efficiency remain ongoing priorities, even when conditions are less supportive. This leaves it well-positioned for growth once the headwinds it has been facing ease.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

Another Australian share that could be a best buy is REA Group.

This real estate listings company's digital platforms are deeply embedded in how buyers, sellers, and agents interact, creating strong network effects that reinforce its market position. Even when transaction volumes fluctuate, the relevance of REA's platforms remains intact.

You only need to look at its numbers to see this. In the first quarter of FY 2026, it boasted 147.9 million average monthly visits. This is a whopping 111.4 million more monthly visits than the nearest competitor on average.

It also highlighted that 12.6 million people visited its site each month on average, with 6.7 million people exclusively using realestate.com.au.

This domination gives it significant pricing power and cements its position as the place to go for property in Australia. So, with its shares down meaningfully from recent highs, now could be an opportune time to invest.

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

A final Australian share that could be a great option for investors is logistics solutions technology company WiseTech Global.

Its software platform plays a critical role in freight forwarding and logistics, handling complex regulatory, operational, and data requirements across international supply chains. Once implemented, WiseTech's systems are deeply embedded in customer workflows, making them difficult to replace.

Recent controversies have drawn attention away from the underlying business, which continues to benefit from increasing supply chain complexity and globalisation of trade. This has weighed on its share price and arguably created an incredible buying opportunity for patient investors.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in CSL, REA Group, and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Growth Shares

A businessman looking at his digital tablet or strategy planning in hotel conference lobby. He is happy at achieving financial goals.
Growth Shares

Forget PLS shares! This ASX growth stock is tipped to rise 60% by 2027

Could this beaten down stock follow PLS' lead and rebound strongly. Bell Potter thinks it could.

Read more »

2 smiling women looking at a phone.
Growth Shares

My 3 higher-risk, high-reward ASX stock recommendations for February 2026

For investors willing to accept uncertainty, selective risk can sometimes be rewarded.

Read more »

A couple and their baby sit together at their computer carrying out digital transactions and smiling happily.
Growth Shares

The bulls are coming: 2 of the best ASX growth shares to buy now to get ahead

When the bulls return, I think these shares could be in demand with investors.

Read more »

Man flies flat above city skyline with rocket strapped to back
Growth Shares

2 ASX growth stocks set to skyrocket in the next 12 months

Analysts are predicting returns of 80% to 130% from these stocks.

Read more »

a young woman raises her hands in joyful celebration as she sits at her computer in a home environment.
Growth Shares

3 underappreciated ASX growth shares I would buy with $1,000

Not all growth opportunities are obvious at first glance. These three ASX shares have earnings potential that may be underappreciated.

Read more »

US navy ship at sea.
Growth Shares

Another record in sight? Why this ASX defence stock is back in rally mode

EOS shares surge toward fresh highs as defence spending accelerates and a key South Korean contract decision looms.

Read more »

A happy boy with his dad dabs like a hero while his father checks his phone.
Growth Shares

5 of the best ASX growth shares to buy and hold

Analysts are bullish on these growth shares. Let's find out why.

Read more »

A woman sends a paper plane soaring into the sky at dusk.
Growth Shares

2 ASX 200 shares to buy and hold for 10 years

Both stocks offer credible paths to wealth creation.

Read more »