First Home Buyer Grants and Concessions: A State-by-State Guide

Buying your first home can be a daunting task, especially with the financial hurdles involved. However, various government grants and concessions are available to help first home buyers across Australia. These incentives can significantly reduce the upfront costs and make homeownership more accessible. Here’s a breakdown of the grants and concessions available in each state and territory as of 2025:

Federal Government Initiatives

Before diving into state-specific grants, it’s important to note the federal government initiatives available to all Australians:

• First Home Guarantee (FHBG): Allows eligible first-home buyers to purchase a home with a deposit as low as 5% without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
• Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee (RFHBG): Supports first-home buyers in regional areas with a deposit starting from 5% and no LMI.
• Family Home Guarantee (FHG): Assists single parents or legal guardians to buy a home with a deposit as low as 2% and no LMI.

State-by-State Grants and Concessions

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

• First Home Owner Grant: Not available for contracts signed after July 1, 2019.
• Home Buyer Concession Scheme (HBCS): Offers a maximum concession of $34,270 on stamp duty for eligible buyers, provided their income is below the threshold.
• Stamp Duty Exemption: Full exemption available for eligible home buyers with income below $250,000 for couples and up to $273,000 with five or more dependents.

New South Wales (NSW)

• First Home Owner Grant: $10,000 for new homes valued up to $750,000.
• Stamp Duty Exemption: No stamp duty for eligible first-home buyers purchasing new or existing dwellings under $800,000.
• Stamp Duty Concession: Discounted stamp duty for purchases between $800,000 and $1,000,000.

Northern Territory (NT)

• First Home Owner Grant: Increased to $50,000 for new homes with no cap on the property purchase price.
• Stamp Duty Exemption: Available for new homes; no concessions for established homes.

Queensland (QLD)

• First Home Owner Grant: $30,000 for contracts signed between November 20, 2023, and June 30, 2025, for new homes valued up to $750,000.
• Stamp Duty Exemption: No stamp duty for eligible first-home buyers purchasing new or existing dwellings under $700,000.
• Stamp Duty Concession: Discounted stamp duty for purchases between $700,000 and $800,000.

South Australia (SA)

• First Home Owner Grant: $15,000 for eligible first-home buyers.
• Stamp Duty Considerations: Various concessions available depending on the property type and value.

Tasmania (TAS)

• First Home Owner Grant: $10,000 for eligible first-home buyers.
• Stamp Duty Exemption: 100% stamp duty concession available.

Victoria (VIC)

• First Home Owner Grant: Details vary, but typically includes stamp duty concessions and shared equity schemes.
• Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for eligible first-home buyers.

Western Australia (WA)

• First Home Owner Grant: $10,000 for eligible first-home buyers.
• Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for eligible first-home buyers.
• BuildForMe Equity Scheme: Offers additional support for eligible buyers.

Conclusion

First home buyer grants and concessions can significantly reduce the financial burden of purchasing a home. Understanding the specific incentives available in your state can help you make the most of these opportunities. Always check the eligibility criteria and any changes to these programs to ensure you’re accessing the support you’re entitled to.

When you’re ready to take the next step, our team at LJ Hooker Home Loans is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your options and turn your homeownership dreams into reality.

This article is prepared based on general information. It does not take into account individual financial objectives or needs and is not financial product advice.