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Your complete guide to government schemes, grants, and support programs
Navigating the path to homeownership in Australia can be complex, but numerous government initiatives are available to help make your dream a reality. This comprehensive guide covers all major support programs available to first home buyers in 2024, including federal schemes like the First Home Guarantee and First Home Super Saver Scheme, as well as state-specific grants and concessions in NSW, VIC, and QLD. Whether you're just starting to save or ready to buy, understanding these programs can save you thousands of dollars and help you enter the property market sooner.
The Australian Government offers several programs to help first home buyers:
First Home Guarantee (FHLDS):
• Purchase with as little as 5% deposit
• Government guarantees up to 15% of the purchase price
• No Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) required
• Property price caps vary by region
First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSS):
• Save up to $50,000 through your super fund
• Contributions taxed at just 15%
• Withdraw for your first home deposit
• Available to individuals and couples
Family Home Guarantee:
• For single parents with dependents
• Purchase with as little as 2% deposit
• Government guarantees up to 18% of the purchase price
• Available for first home buyers and previous property owners
Additional Resources:
• First Home Guarantee (NHFIC)
• First Home Super Saver Scheme (ATO)
• Family Home Guarantee (NHFIC)
• ASIC's MoneySmart Guide to Buying a Home
NSW offers several incentives for first home buyers:
First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme:
• Full stamp duty exemption for homes up to $650,000
• Concessions for homes between $650,000 and $800,000
• No stamp duty on vacant land up to $350,000
• Concessions for land between $350,000 and $450,000
First Home Owner Grant (New Homes):
• $10,000 for new homes up to $750,000
• Applies to new construction or substantially renovated homes
• Must live in the home for at least 6 months
Additional Resources:
• NSW First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme
• NSW Government First Home Buyer Guide
• Apply for First Home Owner Grant
• NSW Fair Trading Property Guide
Victoria provides substantial support for first home buyers:
First Home Owner Grant:
• $10,000 for new homes in metropolitan Melbourne
• $20,000 for new homes in regional Victoria
• Property value cap of $750,000
Stamp Duty Concessions:
• Full exemption for properties up to $600,000
• Sliding scale concession up to $750,000
• Additional concessions for off-the-plan purchases
Additional Resources:
• Victorian First Home Owner Grant
• Victorian Government Housing Support
• Apply for Victorian FHOG
Queensland offers various benefits for first home buyers:
First Home Owner Grant:
• $15,000 for new homes up to $750,000
• Applies to new construction or substantially renovated homes
• Must live in the home for at least 6 months
First Home Concession:
• No transfer duty on homes up to $500,000
• Concessions for homes between $500,000 and $550,000
• First Home Vacant Land Concession available
Additional Resources:
• Queensland First Home Owners' Grant
• Queensland Home Buying Guide
• QLD Housing Financial Help
• QLD Property Laws Guide
Important considerations when buying your first home:
Before You Start:
• Check your eligibility for various schemes
• Calculate your borrowing capacity
• Save for additional costs (legal fees, inspections)
• Get pre-approval for your loan
During the Process:
• Research the local market thoroughly
• Get professional building and pest inspections
• Seek legal advice before signing contracts
• Consider future property value growth
After Purchase:
• Set up a budget for mortgage repayments
• Plan for ongoing costs (rates, insurance)
• Keep all documentation for tax purposes
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about first home buyer schemes and is not intended as financial advice. Schemes, grants, and eligibility criteria can change. Always consult with relevant government websites and qualified professionals for the most current and personalized advice.
Ready to buy your first home? Use our mortgage calculator to estimate your repayments and understand how much you can borrow.