First Home Buyer Grants Explained
Comprehensive breakdown of federal and state grants, eligibility criteria, and how to maximize your entitlements.
First home buyer grants and schemes can inject thousands of dollars into your deposit or reduce your required savings significantly. However, navigating the maze of federal and state programs—each with different eligibility criteria—can be confusing. This guide breaks down what's available and how to access these benefits.
First Home Owner Grant (FHOG)
Most states offer $10,000-$25,000 for first home buyers purchasing or building new homes. Eligibility typically requires: being 18+, never owned property before, Australian citizen or permanent resident, and intending to live in the property for 6-12 months. The grant applies to new builds or substantially renovated homes, not established properties.
First Home Guarantee (Federal)
This federal scheme allows eligible first home buyers to purchase with just 5% deposit without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance. The government guarantees up to 15% of the property value. There are 35,000 places annually (10,000 reserved for regional areas). Eligibility includes income caps ($125,000 single, $200,000 couples) and property price caps varying by location.
Regional First Home Buyer Grant
Some states offer additional grants for regional purchases. Victoria provides an extra $20,000 for regional first home buyers (total $30,000 with standard FHOG). NSW has abolished stamp duty for first home buyers in regional areas for properties under $800,000. These incentives encourage population growth outside capital cities.
Stamp Duty Concessions
All states offer stamp duty reductions or exemptions for first home buyers. NSW: no stamp duty on properties under $650,000. Victoria: no stamp duty under $600,000, concessions to $750,000. Queensland: no duty under $500,000. These savings can reach $25,000-$40,000 depending on property value and location.
First Home Super Saver Scheme
Save up to $50,000 for a deposit inside your super fund, taking advantage of the 15% concessional tax rate instead of your marginal rate. You can withdraw voluntary contributions plus deemed earnings when ready to buy. This scheme works alongside other grants and can accelerate your savings timeline significantly.
How to Apply and Timing
Most grants are applied for at settlement through your conveyancer or solicitor, not before. The First Home Guarantee requires pre-approval from participating lenders before you start house hunting. Stamp duty concessions are automatically applied if you meet eligibility. Keep all documentation proving first home buyer status and residency intentions.
State-by-State Summary
NSW: $10,000 FHOG (new builds), stamp duty exemptions to $800,000. VIC: $10,000 FHOG ($30,000 regional), duty exemptions to $600,000. QLD: $15,000 FHOG (new builds), no duty to $500,000. SA: $15,000 FHOG, duty concessions to $650,000. WA: $10,000 FHOG, duty relief to $530,000. Check your state revenue office for current details as these change regularly.
Key Takeaways
First home buyer grants and schemes can provide $20,000-$50,000+ in savings or deposit assistance. Eligibility varies by state, property type, and personal circumstances. Don't assume you miss out—speak with a mortgage broker who can identify every grant and scheme you qualify for and structure your purchase to maximize benefits.
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