The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG): A Complete State-by-State Guide

Saving for a house in Australia is brutal, but the government does offer free cash to help you across the finish line. The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) is a one-off, tax-free payment given to eligible first-time buyers. However, the rules, the property types, and the payout amounts change dramatically depending on which state you live in.

The Golden Rule: New Homes Only

In almost every state across Australia, the FHOG is now strictly restricted to new homes. The government wants to stimulate the construction industry. If you are buying an established, existing house that someone else has lived in, you will not get the grant (though you may still get Stamp Duty concessions).

A "new home" typically includes a newly built house, an off-the-plan apartment, or a house and land package.

How Much Do You Get? (2026 Snapshot)

The grant amounts are set by the state governments and change frequently. Here is a general breakdown:

  • Victoria (VIC): Usually offers a $10,000 grant for homes up to $750,000. For regional Victoria, the grant has historically been even higher.
  • New South Wales (NSW): Offers $10,000 for new properties up to $600,000, or for building a new home up to $750,000.
  • Queensland (QLD): Has one of the most generous grants, frequently offering between $15,000 and $30,000 depending on government stimulus periods, with limits around $750,000.
  • Western Australia (WA): Typically offers $10,000 for new builds or off-the-plan properties up to $750,000 (or $1,000,000 if north of the 26th parallel).

How to Apply

You do not need to deal with the government directly. Your mortgage broker or bank will handle the FHOG application for you as part of your home loan process. The funds are typically released directly to your builder or seller on settlement day.

To see exactly what your mortgage payments will be once the grant has reduced your loan size, use our Mortgage Calculator.