First Home Buyer Grants and Schemes in Australia for 2026
First home buyer grants and schemes in Australia can save eligible buyers tens of thousands of dollars through cash grants, stamp duty exemptions, and government-backed deposit schemes. In 2026, there are more options available than ever — but navigating the combinations can be confusing.
This guide covers every major federal and state scheme currently available.
Federal Schemes
Help to Buy Scheme
The federal Help to Buy scheme allows the government to contribute up to 40% of the purchase price for a new home or 30% for an existing home. This means you can buy with a deposit as low as 2%, with no Lenders Mortgage Insurance required.
- Income cap: $100,000 for individuals, $160,000 for couples (joint)
- How it works: The government holds an equity share in your home. When you sell, they receive their share of the proceeds.
- Places: Limited — 10,000 places per year
First Home Guarantee (FHBG)
Under the First Home Guarantee, eligible first home buyers can purchase with just a 5% deposit without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance. The government guarantees the remaining 15% to the lender.
- Income cap: $125,000 for individuals, $200,000 for joint applicants
- Places: 35,000 per financial year
- Property price caps: Vary by location (e.g., $900,000 in Sydney, $800,000 in Melbourne)
Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee
Similar to the FHBG but specifically for buyers purchasing in regional areas. Same 5% deposit, no LMI requirement.
State and Territory Grants
| State | Grant Amount | Property Type | Price Cap | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | $10,000 | New homes only | $750,000 | Standard grant |
| VIC | $10,000 | New homes only | $750,000 | $20,000 in regional VIC |
| QLD | $30,000 | New homes only | $750,000 | Doubled until June 2026 |
| WA | $10,000 | New homes only | $750,000 | Standard grant |
| SA | $15,000 | New homes only | $650,000 | Increased from $10,000 |
| TAS | $30,000 | New homes only | $750,000 | One of the most generous |
| ACT | Stamp duty exemption | New or established | No price cap | Income test: $160,000 household |
| NT | $50,000 | New homes | No price cap | Most generous nationally, until Sept 2026 |
Stamp Duty Exemptions for First Home Buyers
In addition to cash grants, most states offer stamp duty exemptions or concessions:
- NSW: Full exemption on properties up to $800,000, concessions up to $1,000,000
- VIC: Full exemption up to $600,000, concessions up to $750,000
- QLD: Full concession up to $700,000, partial up to $800,000
- ACT: Full exemption regardless of property price (income tested)
Use our stamp duty calculator to see your exact concession amount.
Can You Stack Schemes?
Yes. In most cases, you can combine federal and state schemes. For example, a first home buyer in Queensland could potentially access:
- $30,000 QLD First Home Owner Grant
- Full stamp duty concession (saving $15,000–$20,000)
- First Home Guarantee (buy with 5% deposit, no LMI)
That is potentially $50,000+ in combined savings on a single purchase.
Eligibility Checklist
- You (or your partner) must not have previously owned property in Australia
- You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
- You must be 18 years or older
- You must move into the property within 12 months and live there for at least 6–12 months (varies by state)
- Income and property price caps apply (check your state's specific limits)
Calculate Your Total Buying Costs
Even with grants and exemptions, first home buyers still face significant costs. Use the LookingToSell calculator to see the complete cost picture, and our mortgage calculator to estimate your repayments.