What Is The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG)?
The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) is a one-off benefit for first-home buyers. It is a nationwide scheme funded and administered by the states and territories of Australia.
The grant is given to first-home buyers who purchase property in Australia, if they meet all the eligibility criteria.
Who Is Eligible For The First Home Owner Grant?
The eligibility criteria for the FHOG in Australia vary slightly by state and territory, but there are common requirements that applicants must meet.
- Applicants are first-home buyers who have not owned property anywhere in Australia.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- At least one applicant must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. New Zealand citizens with special category visas may also qualify.
- The grant is available for the purchase of a new home, a substantially renovated home, or an off-the-plan property. Established homes typically do not qualify unless they have been significantly renovated.
- Applicants must occupy the home as their principal place of residence for at least 12 months, beginning within 12 months of settlement or completion of construction.
Applying For the FHOG
- Check your eligibility using our calculator.
- Then, you can apply through an approved agent (lender or mortgage broker) or directly with the relevant state or territory revenue office.
- If you want expert guidance, the mortgage specialists at Home Loan Experts can help. Our team of experts will guide you throughout.
To avoid processing delays, ensure you have the following documents ready when applying for the grant.
Required Documents
- Valid identification, like a driver’s licence or passport for all applicants
- A declaration or form confirming that the applicants have not previously owned residential property in Australia.
- Evidence that at least one applicant will occupy the home as their principal place of residence, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
- A copy of the Contract of Sale for the property being purchased.
- If applicable, documentation related to substantial renovations if claiming for a renovated home.
- Completed application forms specific to the state or territory’s FHOG program, which may require additional declarations regarding property value and eligibility criteria.
As the documents required will vary by state or territory, it’s best to check with the respective revenue office for any specific requirements or additional necessary documentation.
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Does The Grant Vary Among States And Territories?
Yes, it ranges between $10,000 and $50,000. Here’s a list of the grant amounts from each state and territory.
State/Territory | First Home Owner Grant Amount | Property Price Cap |
---|---|---|
NSW | $10,000 | $600,000 for new homes and builds $750,000 for vacant land with contract to build |
Victoria | $10,000 | $700,000 for new homes |
Queensland | $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2024 | $750,000 for new home and builds |
Western Australia (WA) | $10,000 | Up to $750,000: South of the 26th parallel (includes all Perth metro areas). Up to $1,000,000: North of the 26th parallel. |
South Australia (SA) | $15,000 | No property price cap |
South Australia (SA) | $10,000 | No property price cap |
ACT | Home Buyer Concession has replaced the FHOG | Concession available for properties valued up to $1 million |
Northern Territory (NT) | $50,000 HomeGrown Territory Grant | No property price cap |
Need Help with Your First Home Owner Grant?
We’re here to make your First Home Owner Grant application stress-free! We will assist you in completing the form, gathering the correct supporting documents, and following up to ensure your grant is approved and paid promptly.
Enquire NowFAQs
Can The First Home Owner Grant Be Used As A Deposit?
Yes, the grant will be a part of your deposit for your first home.
Typically, most lenders require a deposit of at least 5% of the property price. The grant amount on its own might not be sufficient, in which case you will require existing savings for a deposit on your first home.
If you have not saved enough deposit, a guarantor home loan is the best option. Other low-deposit and no-deposit home loan options are available for first-home buyers.
Can I Get The First Home Owner Grant For An Existing Home?
What Grants And Schemes Are Available For First-Home Buyers In Australia?
Can First Home Buyers Get Stamp Duty Exemptions?
Can First-Home Buyers Avoid LMI?
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