You don't need a six-figure salary to get started in the stock market. In fact, with just $250 and a long-term mindset, you can begin building wealth by owning pieces of some of Australia's smartest businesses.

The Australian share market is home to a wide variety of high-quality companies — from global healthcare powerhouses to rapidly scaling tech firms.

If you're looking for smart places to invest a modest amount, here are three standout Australian stocks that could deliver strong returns over time.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

CSL is one of the world's largest biotechnology companies and a global leader in plasma therapies and vaccines. With more than a century of innovation behind it, the company has built a track record of sustainable growth and exceptional returns.

CSL's global footprint, strong research pipeline, and increasing demand for its life-saving treatments make it one of the smartest stocks an Australian investor can own. It's also trading well below its historical valuation multiples, making now a potentially opportune time to pick up shares.

Bell Potter currently rates it as a buy with a $330.00 price target.

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

Another Australian stock to consider for a $250 investment is WiseTech. It is one of the country's true tech success stories.

WiseTech Global provides logistics software that powers international supply chains — a mission-critical function in today's globalised economy. Its flagship product, CargoWise, is used by many of the world's largest freight and logistics companies.

With high margins, recurring revenue, and expansion into new markets, WiseTech has built a growth engine with staying power.

Macquarie is bullish on the company's outlook and has an outperform rating and $152.70 price target on its shares.

Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS)

Lithium is expected to play a critical role in the global energy transition, and Pilbara Minerals is one of Australia's top lithium producers. Its flagship Pilgangoora project is a tier-one asset supplying spodumene concentrate to battery makers around the world.

While lithium prices have come under pressure recently, the long-term demand outlook remains strong. This is being underpinned by electric vehicles and energy storage.

For investors comfortable with a bit of volatility, Pilbara Minerals could offer smart exposure to one of the most important resource trends of the next decade. And with its shares down by over 50% since this time last year, now could be an opportune time to invest for the long term.

Morgans has an add rating and $2.30 price target on this Australian stock.