7 Schemes & Grants for First Home Buyers
Your 2025 Guide to Government Help for First-Time Buyers in Australia
Buying your first home is a big milestone—but in today's market, it can feel out of reach. The good news is that government grants and schemes are available to help make home ownership more affordable for first-time buyers across Australia.
This guide breaks down 7 key grants and schemes in 2025 that can help you enter the property market with confidence.
First Home Owner Grant (FHOG)
A one-off payment for eligible buyers purchasing or building a brand-new home. Amount and eligibility rules vary by state or territory.
State/Territory Grant Amount NSW Up to $10,000 VIC Up to $10,000 QLD Up to $30,000* WA / SA / NT Up to $10,000 TAS Up to $30,000* ACT Not available - Must be a new home (not previously occupied)
- Applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents
- Must not have owned property in Australia before
First Home Guarantee (FHBG)
Formerly known as the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme. Buy with just 5% deposit and no LMI.
- 35,000 spots available annually
- Income limit: $125k (single), $200k (couple)
- Applies to new and existing homes
- You must live in the home
Tip: Places fill quickly—talk to a participating lender early.
Family Home Guarantee
For single parents buying with just 2% deposit.
- Must have at least one dependent child
- Income limit: $125,000/year
- Not limited to first home buyers
- 5,000 places available per year
First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS)
Save your deposit through your super fund with tax benefits.
- Withdraw up to $50,000 per individual
- Couples can access up to $100,000
- Super contributions taxed at only 15%
Stamp Duty Concessions & Exemptions
Many states offer reduced or no stamp duty for first-time buyers.
State Concession Threshold (2025) NSW Full exemption up to $800k, partial up to $1M VIC No duty up to $600k, discount up to $750k QLD Concessions up to $550k WA / SA / TAS / NT Varies by state Shared Equity Schemes
Government co-owns part of the property to reduce your deposit and loan burden.
- NSW – up to 40% shared equity
- VIC – up to 25% via HomeBuyer Fund
- WA – Keystart Shared Ownership program
Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee
Similar to FHBG but designed for regional buyers.
- Buy with 5% deposit, no LMI
- 10,000 places per year
- Must buy in eligible regional location
Final Tips for First Home Buyers
- Check your eligibility – Each scheme has different criteria
- Combine benefits – Many buyers use more than one scheme
- Stay informed – Government policies can change yearly
- Speak to a broker or advisor – They'll help you navigate applications
Ready to Buy Your First Home?
Explore your options with these schemes and grants to make the most of your budget. Whether you're planning to buy in the city or the bush, new or established, there's likely a program that can help you.