What You Need to Know About First Home Buyer Benefits
The First Home Owner Grant is a national scheme, but each state administers it differently. Grant amounts range from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on where you buy and what type of property you purchase. New builds typically attract higher grants than established homes. In fact, most states now restrict the grant to new homes only.
To qualify, you must be buying or building a new home that has not been previously sold or occupied. The total value must be $750,000 or less. You and your spouse cannot have previously received a first home owner grant anywhere in Australia. At least one applicant must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, and all applicants must be at least 18 years old at settlement.
Stamp Duty Concessions Add Up Quickly
Stamp duty is often the second-largest cost after your deposit. On a $600,000 property, you might pay $20,000 or more in stamp duty without concessions. First home buyer concessions can reduce this to zero in many cases.
Each state sets its own thresholds and rates. Some offer complete exemptions below certain price points. Others provide sliding scale discounts that phase out as property values increase. Off-the-plan purchases sometimes attract additional benefits because you're only paying stamp duty on the land component at contract signing.
Recent Changes You Should Know
The Help to Buy scheme will support up to 40,000 eligible Australian households over the next four years. Since October 2025, income caps have been removed from certain schemes. High-income earners who previously missed out can now access benefits that save thousands on lenders mortgage insurance.
These rules change regularly. What applied six months ago may not apply today. Our solicitors stay current with every state's requirements so you don't miss out on savings you're entitled to claim.
Common Mistakes That Cost First Home Buyers Money
The biggest mistake is assuming you don't qualify. Many buyers rule themselves out based on outdated information or misunderstanding the criteria. Income limits have been relaxed or removed entirely for several programs.
Timing errors cause problems too. Applications lodged late or with missing documentation get rejected. Some concessions must be claimed before settlement, not after. Others require specific forms that aren't obvious to find.
Property type confusion is another issue. Buying an established home when you thought it was new disqualifies you from the grant. We verify your property's status before you sign anything.
