What is Dogecoin? A 2026 Guide for Australians

Dogecoin (DOGE) is an open cryptocurrency that launched in December 2013 as a meme coin built around the Shiba Inu "Doge" meme. It was forked from Litecoin and is secured by Scrypt proof-of-work mining, with an uncapped, inflationary supply rather than Bitcoin's 21 million cap. This guide covers where Dogecoin came from, how the network works, what people use DOGE for, how it compares with Bitcoin and Litecoin, and the Australian angle: AUSTRAC-registered platforms for AUD purchases, ATO capital gains tax basics, custody choices and the main risks. Education only — not financial advice. Publisher: Eagle BTM Pty Ltd ACN 659 281 820 (AUSTRAC DCE / VASP).

What is Dogecoin? Meme-origin crypto explained for Australians — how DOGE works, uses, buying with AUD, ATO CGT basics, and key risks in 2026.