Calculate Your 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 must be first-home buyers who have not owned property anywhere in Australia.
• Applicants 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 substantially 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.

Yes, it ranges between $10,000 and $50,000. Here’s a list of the grant amounts from each state and territory.

Yes, the grant can be used as part of your deposit for your first home.

However, most lenders require a deposit of at least 5% of the property price, and the grant alone may not be sufficient. In most cases, you will need additional savings to meet the deposit requirements.

If you haven’t saved enough, a guarantor home loan can help, as well as other low-deposit and no-deposit home loan options available for first-home buyers.

Yes, you can use the FHOG alongside other first-home buyer benefits. Many first-home buyers combine the FHOG with additional government incentives to reduce upfront costs. These may include:

• Stamp-Duty Concessions or Exemptions: Most states offer full or partial exemptions on stamp duty for eligible first-home buyers.
• First Home Guarantee (FHBG): Allows eligible buyers to purchase a home with as little as 5% deposit without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
• First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS): Enables first-home buyers to withdraw voluntary super contributions to boost their deposit.
• State-Specific Schemes: Some states offer additional grants, concessions, shared-equity schemes, or low/no-interest loans for first-home buyers.

• Check your eligibility using our calculator.
• Then, apply through your lender or directly with the State Revenue Office.
  • Through a Lender: Most banks and mortgage brokers can submit the FHOG application on your behalf when you apply for a home loan.
  • Direct Application: If your lender is not handling the application, you can apply directly through your state or territory’s revenue office.
• If you want expert guidance, the mortgage specialists at Home Loan Experts can help. Our team of experts will guide you through the process.

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.