Quick Look
Focus: Overview of national and state-based support schemes for first home buyers in Australia
Key Takeaways :
Buying your first home is a major milestone—but with prices climbing, deposits growing, and borrowing rules tightening, it can feel out of reach.
Thankfully, both the federal and state governments offer support for eligible first home buyers. Grants, stamp duty concessions, and deposit guarantees can take thousands off your up front costs — if you know where to look and how to apply.
A 20% deposit on a median-priced home in Australia now sits well above $100,000 in many areas. For first-time buyers, that kind of saving can take years — especially while also paying rent.
That’s why government schemes exist: to level the playing field a little. But many buyers miss out by assuming they’re ineligible or leaving it too late to apply.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach — eligibility varies depending on your income, the value of the property, and where you’re buying. Understanding the options early can save you time, stress, and money.
1. First Home Guarantee (FHBG Federal Govt)
What it is: Lets you buy a home with as little as 5% deposit, with the government acting as guarantor so you can avoid Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI)
Eligibility:
Tip: From 1 October 2025, the federal scheme was expanded:
2. First Home – Owner Grant (FHOG State Govts)
What it is: A one-off cash grant (usually $10,000) for eligible buyers of new homes or homes off the plan
Available in: All states and territories, with slightly different rules
Example:
Tip: Applies only to new properties in most states
3. Stamp Duty Concessions or Exemptions (State Govts)
What it is: A full or partial reduction in stamp duty(transfer duty)
Eligibility:
Examples:
4. First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS)
Note: Schemes can change yearly—always check current rules via state revenue offices.
Sam and Chloe, buying in Brisbane Combined income: $170,000 Property: New build valued at $620,000 What they accessed: $30,000 QLD First Home-Owner Grant Full FHBG place—bought with just 5% deposit ($31,000) avoided ~$15,000 in LMI No stamp duty (property under QLD threshold for first home buyers) Saved over $45,000 in up front costs and bought immediately which is 4 years sooner than expected using just $3,000 of their own cash ($1,000 deposit short fall + $2,000 purchase costs)
Can I use more than one scheme?
Yes. Many buyers use a combination—e.g. FHBG + stamp duty exemption + FHSSS. Just be sure you meet the criteria for each.
Does my partner’s property history count?
Yes. For most schemes, both buyers must be first home buyers. If your partner has owned property, you may not qualify.
What if I’m building rather than buying?
That’s fine—many grants apply to new builds or off-the-plan purchases. Just check the rules on time frames and builder eligibility.
Is there a deadline to apply?
Yes. Schemes like FHBG previously had limited spots and annual caps and future changes to the federal scheme may reintroduce these. Others, like stamp duty concessions, have strict timing tied to settlement. Don’t leave it too late.
Do I need to live in the home?
Yes. Most grants require you to live in the property for 6 –12 months (rules vary by state & scheme).
Where can I find the appropriate information on first home owner grants for my state?
If you’re a first home buyer, government support could make a huge difference to your buying power and timing. But with each scheme having its own rules, it’s important to research early, crunch your numbers, and understand your eligibility.
Used wisely, these programs can help you enter the market with a smaller deposit, lower up front costs, and less stress.
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Disclosure: General information only. Consider your objectives, financial situation and needs, and seek professional advice before acting.
How We Keep It Trustworthy
Every article includes aReview & Fact Checksection below—so you know exactly where our facts come from, what’s uncertain, and whether there’s any bias.
Article is educational and neutral Promotions for moneyGPS and Planning IQ clearly marked and separated from factual content
First Home Guarantee, updated 2025 caps State-based FHOG and stamp duty rules–Revenue NSW, State Revenue Office VIC,QLD Treasury, and other state sites as of May 2025 FHSSS contribution and withdrawal limits–ATO (ato.gov.au), current as of 1 July 2025
Sam and Chloe’s scenario is illustrative only Property price cap changes or scheme eligibility updates may not be reflected in real time
Grants and caps are subject to budget changes and annual updates—check official sources before relying on amounts
Disclaimer: All information on Super Advice Ai is general in nature only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether any information on Super Advice Ai is appropriate to you before acting on it. If Super Advice Ai refers to a financial product, you should obtain the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or seek professional advice from a licensed financial planner.
