ANZ Bank in 2026: Profits Up, Strategy Shift, and What It Means for Borrowers
ANZ Bank started 2026 with a strong financial result but also significant internal changes and strategic shifts that have a...
First Home Government Grant (FHOG) Guide
The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to support eligible first-home buyers in purchasing or building their first residential property. It provides a one-off financial contribution that can help reduce some of the upfront costs involved in entering the property market.
The grant amount, eligibility rules, and property criteria vary between Australian states and territories, so it is important to understand how the scheme applies in your location.
What is the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG)?
The FHOG is a one-time payment provided by state and territory governments to eligible first-home buyers.
It is generally intended to:
- Support individuals purchasing their first home
- Encourage home ownership
- Assist with the cost of buying or building a new residential property
The grant is usually not required to be repaid if eligibility conditions are met.
Who is Eligible for FHOG?
Eligibility criteria can vary by state, but generally include:
- You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
- You must be purchasing or building your first home
- You (and your spouse or partner, if applicable) must not have previously owned property in Australia
- You must live in the property for a minimum period (commonly 6–12 months, depending on the state)
- The property must meet the value threshold set by the relevant state or territory
Each jurisdiction has its own rules, so checking local requirements is important.
What Properties Are Eligible?
The FHOG is usually available for:
- Newly built homes
- Off-the-plan properties
- Substantially renovated homes (in some cases)
- House and land packages
In most states, established or previously occupied homes are not eligible for the grant.
Current FHOG amounts by state and territory (2025-26):
| State / Territory | FHOG Amount (2025–26) | Eligibility / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | $10,000 | New homes valued under $600,000 |
| VIC | $10,000 | New homes |
| Regional VIC | $20,000 | Eligible regional new homes |
| QLD | $30,000 | New homes valued under $750,000 |
| WA | $10,000 | New homes |
| SA | $15,000 | New homes |
| TAS | $30,000 | New homes |
| ACT | No FHOG | Replaced by the home buyer concession scheme |
| NT | $10,000 | New homes |
Grant amounts and eligibility rules are updated periodically. Always confirm with your state revenue office or broker before relying on these figures.
Property price caps:
| State / Territory | Property Price Cap | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | Under $600,000 | Partial concession available up to $750,000 |
| VIC | Under $750,000 | Regional VIC cap up to $1,000,000 |
| QLD | Under $750,000 | Applies to eligible new homes |
| WA | Under $750,000 | Applies to eligible new homes |
| SA | Under $650,000 | Applies to eligible new homes |
| TAS | Confirm with Revenue Tasmania | Caps may vary or change |
| ACT | No FHOG | Replaced by the home buyer concession scheme |
| NT | Under $750,000 | Applies to eligible new homes |
Established or previously occupied homes are not eligible for the FHOG in most states.
Government Support Could Help You Buy Your First Home Sooner
The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) can help eligible first home buyers reduce upfront costs when purchasing or building a new home in Australia. FS Loan helps you understand grant eligibility, state-based requirements, and how these schemes may support your home loan journey.
How to Apply for FHOG
The application process usually involves:
- Submitting an application through your lender or state revenue office
- Providing proof of identity and residency status
- Showing evidence of property purchase or construction contract
- Confirming first-home buyer status
In many cases, applications are processed at the same time as your home loan application.
FHOG vs Other First Home Schemes
The FHOG is often used alongside other government initiatives, such as:
- First Home Guarantee Scheme
- Regional First Home Buyer support programs
- Stamp duty concessions (varies by state)
Each scheme has different eligibility rules and benefits, and they may or may not be combined depending on circumstances.
Things to Consider Before Relying on FHOG
Before planning your purchase around the FHOG, it is important to consider:
- Eligibility rules can change over time
- Property price caps may limit available options
- The grant is typically only available for new or specific types of properties
- Approval is subject to strict documentation and conditions
- You still need to meet full loan repayment requirements
The FHOG is generally a support tool, not the main source of funding for a property purchase.
Understanding Your Options
When considering the FHOG, it can also help to explore:
- Different first-home buyer loan structures
- Government-backed guarantee schemes
- Deposit-saving strategies
- Budgeting for total purchase costs, including stamp duty, legal fees, and ongoing repayments
A balanced view of all available options can help you make a more informed decision.
