Buying your first home is a huge step, but stamp duty can quickly take the excitement out of it. The good news? Every Australian state offers stamp duty exemptions or concessions to help first home buyers get their foot in the door.
And in this article, we are going to break down everything you need to know about stamp duty concessions in 2025.
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Begin your assessmentWhat Is Stamp Duty and Why Does It Matter?
Stamp duty (also called transfer duty) is a government tax paid when you buy a property. The cost can run into tens of thousands of dollars, on top of your deposit and other fees.
Thankfully, if you’re a first home buyer, you might be eligible for significant savings or even a full exemption, depending on where you live and the value of the property.
State-by-State Breakdown: Who Gets What?
Victoria (VIC)
- Full exemption: Homes valued up to $600,000
- Concession: Sliding scale from $600,001 to $750,000
- Eligibility: Must live in the home for at least 12 months, be a first home buyer, and not own other property
- Bonus: Extra exemptions may apply for off-the-plan purchases and long-held developer stock in inner Melbourne
New South Wales (NSW)
- Full exemption: New or existing homes up to $800,000
- Concession: Homes $800,001 to $1 million
- Vacant land: Exemption up to $350,000, concession up to $450,000
- Application: Apply online or through your conveyancer; must live in the home for at least 6 months
Queensland (QLD)
- First home concession: Full exemption on homes up to $500,000; partial up to $550,000.
- Vacant land concession: Available up to $400,000 (conditions apply).
- New in 2025: Full exemption for new homes up to $800,000 if purchased after 1 May 2025.
- Eligibility: Must occupy the home within 12 months and not have owned property before.
Western Australia (WA)
- Exemption: Up to $430,000 on the first $430,000 of home value
- Concession: Reduced duty for homes up to $530,000
- Vacant land: Concession available up to $400,000
- Application: Submit forms at settlement; must be eligible for FHOG.
Tasmania (TAS)
- 100% exemption: Established homes valued up to $750,000 (until 30 June 2026)
- Previously: 50% concession applied up to $600,000
- Eligibility: Applies to first home buyers only; home must be principal place of residence
Comparison Table For Different States
| State | Full Exemption Threshold | Concession Range | Vacant Land Threshold |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIC | Up to $600,000 | $600,001-$750,000 | N/A |
| NSW | Up to $600,000 | $800,001-$1M | Up to $350K |
| QLD | Up to $800,000 | $500,001-$550,000 | Up to $400K |
| WA | Up to $430,000 | $430,001-$530,000 | Up to $400K |
| TAS | Up to $750,000 | N/A | N/A |
Eligibility For Stamp Duty Exemptions And Concessions
- You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
- You (or your partner) cannot have previously owned property.
- You must move into the home and live there for a set period (usually 6 to 12 months).
- The home must be your principal place of residence, not an investment.
How to Apply?
- Check your eligibility with your state revenue office or an online calculator
- Prepare documents: proof of identity, contract of sale, and declaration forms
- Apply online or via your conveyancer or solicitor
- Get approval before or during settlement to reduce upfront costs
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Other First Home Buyer Support
First Home Owner Grant (FHOG): Lump-sum payment available in most states for new builds
Home Guarantee Scheme: Federal scheme allowing low deposit purchases without LMI.
Quick Tips to Maximise Savings
- Consider new builds where possible to access both FHOG and stamp duty relief.
- Be aware of price thresholds; even $1 over the limit can cost thousands.
- Use government tools and calculators to estimate your benefit.
- Seek professional advice from a conveyancer or mortgage broker.
Unlock Your Dream Home With Expert Guidance!
Stamp duty can be a dealbreaker for many first home buyers, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re buying in Victoria or Queensland, Tasmania or WA, 2025 brings generous concessions and exemptions designed to help you take that first step onto the property ladder.
Now that you’ve uncovered the potential for stamp-duty exemptions and concessions, it’s time to take the next step towards your dream home. Our team at Home Loan Experts will guide you through the process, offering expert advice and personalised solutions, because we care about making your homeownership dream a reality.
Take advantage of the opportunity to save on stamp duty and secure the best financing options. Contact us today at 1300 889 743 or complete our free online assessment form.