Queensland has extended key incentives for first home buyers, making it easier to enter the property market. Eligible buyers of new homes can now receive a $30,000 First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2026.
From 1 May 2025, qualifying buyers of new homes or vacant residential land to build their first residence may also enjoy a full transfer duty (stamp duty) exemption — with no price cap.
Both benefits have different rules but can work together to reduce upfront costs. Here’s a clear summary of what they mean and how you can prepare.
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Two Major Benefits — Know the Key Dates
- $30,000 First Home Owner Grant (FHOG)
Applies to contracts signed (or construction started) between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2026 for an eligible new home.
Price limit: up to $750,000.
Occupancy requirement: you must move in within 12 months of completion and live there continuously for at least 6 months.
- Zero Stamp Duty for First Home Buyers (from 1 May 2025)
Applies to contracts dated 1 May 2025 or later for an eligible new home or vacant residential land used to build your first principal residence.
The exemption covers the entire value of the new home and residential land — with no price cap.
Tip: These two programs are separate. The qualifying dates and criteria differ, so check both carefully before you sign.
What Counts as a “New Home”?
- A newly built home that has never been lived in or sold before.
- A substantially renovated home may qualify only if it meets strict conditions under QRO rules and is properly certified.
- Existing or second-hand properties generally do not qualify as new homes for FHOG or the zero-duty concession.
Typical Scenarios
- Scenario A – Buying a newly built home (contract signed 10 June 2025)
Within the FHOG window and after 1 May 2025. If the price is ≤ $750,000 and you intend to live there, you may qualify for both the $30,000 grant and zero stamp duty.
- Scenario B – Building on vacant land
FHOG depends on when construction reaches the required stage within the grant period.
Zero duty applies if the land contract is dated on or after 1 May 2025, and the land is used to build your first home.
- Scenario C – New home above $750,000
FHOG will not apply due to the price cap, but the zero-duty exemption may still apply (there is no price limit on new homes and residential land).
Always confirm with your solicitor before signing. Eligibility depends on your contract terms, price structure, property type, and living arrangements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mixing up key dates: FHOG applies to 20 Nov 2023 – 30 Jun 2026; zero duty applies to contracts dated ≥ 1 May 2025.
- Misunderstanding “new home”: minor renovations do not qualify.
- Contract changes: price amendments, delays, or transfers can affect eligibility.
- Ignoring occupancy rules: FHOG and duty concessions have different living and renting conditions — breaching them can cancel your benefit.
Our Legal Services (Before Contract to Settlement)
- Eligibility and Contract Review
We review your contract before you sign to ensure property type, key dates, and conditions align with legal requirements and do not risk your first-home eligibility.
- Document Preparation and Process Guidance
We help prepare and review the required legal documents (contracts, identity verification, and declarations) and keep you informed of critical deadlines.
- Settlement Coordination
We liaise with the seller’s solicitor, bank, and settlement agent to ensure all legal documentation and filing are accurate and compliant.
Please note: For tax-related matters, please refer to the Queensland Revenue Office (QRO) or your registered accountant.
Contact W & G Lawyers
📞 07 2810 5666
✉ info@wglawyers.com.au
🌐 www.wglawyers.com.au
🏢 68 Bryants Road, Shailer Park QLD 4128
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Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. This article provides general information only and is not legal advice.
Eligibility depends on your specific circumstances, including contract terms, property type, and timing. W & G Lawyers has taken care to ensure accuracy based on official sources, but laws and policies may change.
Please seek independent legal advice before acting on any information contained here.