First-Time Buyer Stamp Duty Exemptions
Understanding Stamp Duty for First-Time Buyers
Stamp duty is a tax charged by state governments on property purchases. The amount varies by state, property price, and whether you’re eligible for any exemptions.
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- Why It’s Important: For first-time buyers, qualifying for a stamp duty exemption or concession can mean substantial savings
- Calculation Factors: The tax is usually calculated as a percentage of the property value and can change based on your location and the type of property.
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Stamp Duty Exemptions by State
New South Wales (NSW)
First-time buyers in NSW can take advantage of the First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme if their property falls within specified value ranges.
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- Exemptions: Full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000.
- Partial Concessions: Discounted stamp duty for properties valued between $800,000 and $1,000,000.
- Land Exemption: No stamp duty on land valued up to $350,000, with discounts available for land between $350,000 and $450,000.
Additional Exemptions: Exemptions may apply if the property transfer occurs between spouses or from a deceased estate.
Victoria
Victoria provides stamp duty relief for first-time buyers based on property value, with additional benefits for pensioners.
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- Exemptions: No stamp duty for properties valued up to $600,000
- Partial Concessions: Discounted rates on properties valued between $600,000 and $750,000.
- Pensioner Concessions: Full exemption for pensioners on properties up to $600,000, with discounts for properties valued up to $750,000.
Other ways to save: First-time buyers may receive a temporary stamp duty concession for off-the-plan properties, with specific discounts for pensioners and downsizers purchasing under $600,000.
Queensland
In Queensland, first-time buyers can qualify for stamp duty concessions on properties within specified value limits.
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- Exemptions: Full exemption on homes valued up to $700,000.
- Partial Concessions: Discounted duty for homes valued between $700,001 and $800,000.
- Land Concession: Exemptions apply on land up to $350,000, with discounts on land valued up to $500,000.
Other benefits: A home concession also applies to those purchasing a property as their primary residence.
South Australia (SA)
South Australia offers exemptions primarily for new or off-the-plan properties.
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- Exemptions: Full exemption on stamp duty for new and off-the-plan dwellings.
- Other Exemptions: Owner-builders and land purchasers also enjoy stamp duty waivers.
Additional exemptions apply for property transfers within families or due to inheritance.
Western Australia (WA)
Western Australia provides exemptions and concessions based on property value, with additional savings for certain types of property transfers.
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- Exemptions: Full exemption for properties valued up to $450,000.
- Partial Concessions: Reduced duty on properties between $450,001 and $600,000.
- Land Concession: No duty on land valued up to $300,000, with discounts for land up to $400,000.
Further concessions: Discounts are available for off-the-plan properties, with extra exemptions for property transfers between spouses.
Tasmania
Tasmania offers unique stamp duty exemptions for first-time buyers purchasing established homes and off-the-plan properties.
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- Exemptions: Full exemption on stamp duty for homes up to $750,000.
- Discounts for New Properties: First-time buyers of new or off-the-plan units may qualify for a 50% stamp duty discount.
Additional benefits: Exemptions are available for pensioners purchasing downsized homes valued under $600,000.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
The ACT operates a Home Buyer Concession Scheme with a focus on income limits rather than property value thresholds.
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- Exemptions: Exemption amounts up to $34,270, with eligibility based on income.
- Eligibility: Open to buyers who haven’t owned property in the past five years, buying property to live in.
Other exemptions include discounts for pensioners and those buying off-the-plan properties under $1 million.
Northern Territory (NT)
The NT does not provide general first-time buyer stamp duty exemptions but offers specific relief through the House and Land Package Exemption.
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- Exemption Eligibility: Available to buyers purchasing house and land packages, with no upper value limit.
Other exemptions apply for certain property transfers within family or inheritance.
💡 Tip: Bookmark your state government’s stamp duty page to stay updated on potential changes to exemption policies or thresholds.
Eligibility Requirements for Exemptions
To qualify for a stamp duty exemption or concession, you generally need to meet specific criteria that may vary by state.
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- First-Home Buyer Requirement: You must be purchasing your first property.
- Residency Condition: Some states require you to live in the property for a set period (usually six months).
- Property Value Limits: Many exemptions apply only to properties below a certain value threshold.
Steps to Apply for a Stamp Duty Exemption
Applying for a stamp duty exemption typically involves submitting documents through your conveyancer or solicitor, who will handle the process on your behalf.
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- Required Documents: Prepare identification, proof of first-home buyer status, and purchase details.
- Lodging the Application: Your conveyancer will submit the exemption request to the state’s revenue office.
- Approval Timeline: Check with your conveyancer for expected processing times, as they vary by state.
💡 Tip: Confirm eligibility with your conveyancer early in the buying process to avoid unexpected costs.
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