First Home Buyer: Stamp Duty Concessions & Costs
Buying your first home in Australia? Every state offers different stamp duty concessions — some with full exemptions. Here's what you need to know.
Stamp Duty Concessions by State
| State | Concession Type | Full Exemption Up To | Partial Concession Up To |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | Sliding scale | $800,000 | $1,000,000 |
| VIC | Sliding scale | $600,000 | $750,000 |
| QLD | Concession rate | $700,000 | $800,000 |
| WA | Reduced rate | $430,000 | $530,000 |
| SA | None | — | — |
| TAS | 50% discount | — | $600,000 |
| ACT | Full exemption | $1,000,000 | — |
| NT | Discount | Check NT Treasury | — |
SA does not offer stamp duty concessions but provides a $15,000 First Home Owner Grant for new homes. TAS offers a 50% duty discount rather than full exemption.
Calculate Your First Home Buyer Savings
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Cost Breakdown
Full FHB exemption in NSW for properties up to $800,000.
Range: $1,100 – $3,300
Range: $1,100 – $3,300
Estimates only. Actual costs may vary. Consult a licensed conveyancer or settlement agent for accurate quotes.
First Home Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check your eligibility for FHB concessions in your state
- 2.Get pre-approval from your lender
- 3.Use the calculator above to estimate total costs
- 4.Engage a conveyancer or settlement agent before signing a contract
- 5.Apply for the First Home Owner Grant if buying a new home
- 6.Complete the statutory declaration confirming FHB status
- 7.Budget for stamp duty (even if concession applies) plus conveyancing fees
Frequently Asked Questions
Do first home buyers pay stamp duty in Australia?
It depends on the state and property price. NSW offers full exemption up to $800,000. VIC exempts up to $600,000. ACT exempts up to $1,000,000. QLD and WA offer concessions. SA has no stamp duty concession but offers a $15,000 First Home Owner Grant for new homes.
What is the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG)?
The FHOG is a one-off payment from the government to help first home buyers purchase a new home. The amount varies by state (typically $10,000–$15,000) and is separate from stamp duty concessions. It generally applies only to new-build properties.
Can I get a stamp duty concession on an investment property?
No. First home buyer stamp duty concessions only apply to properties you intend to live in as your primary residence. Investment properties are not eligible for any FHB concessions in any state.
How do I prove I am a first home buyer?
You must not have previously owned or co-owned residential property in Australia. Your conveyancer or settlement agent will help you complete the relevant statutory declaration. Requirements vary slightly by state.
What conveyancing costs do first home buyers pay?
First home buyers pay the same conveyancing professional fees and disbursements as other buyers. The savings come from stamp duty concessions, which can range from a few thousand dollars to full exemption depending on your state and property price.