0434 195 308 | info@tazmortgagesolutions.com.au

TAZ Mortgage Solutions

Taz Mortgage Solutions
Menu
ACT First Home Owners Grant: A Step-by-Step Application Process and Requirements

Buying your first home in the ACT is an exciting milestone, but trying to understand government support programs can feel really confusing, particularly as many buyers still search for the ACT First Home Owners Grant.

Table of Contents

While the ACT does not have the traditional cash grant anymore, there are some helpful concessions and schemes in its place. These reduce many upfront costs and allow more people to be able to afford home ownership.

This guide explains what replaced the grant, who is eligible, and how to apply.

Related Post:

👉 Read our complete guide for ACT first home buyers:

Canberra First Home Buyers Grant: Your Complete 2025 Guide to Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply

What happened to the first home owners’ grant for the ACT?

The ACT Government abolished the original FHOG and replaced it with a more equitable scheme that targeted a reduction of the initial purchase costs.

Today, when referring to the ACT First Home Owners Grant, many people basically refer to the following support options:

  • Duty concessions (Stamp Duty/Conveyance Duty)
  • Home Buyer Concession Scheme
  • Shared equity and equity participation programs
  • Support for low-to-moderate income households

These options offer more long-term savings than is usually available from a single outright cash grant.

Eligibility Criteria for First Home Buyers in the ACT

To be eligible to receive an ACT concession, purchasers must adhere to the eligibility criteria. Although each program is different, most share some very similar central features of their eligibility criteria.

General Eligibility Criteria

Must meet the following basic qualifications:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • You have to be an Australian citizen or a permanent resident of Australia
  • Not to have owned property within the required timeframe
  • Live in the property as your principal place of residence
  • Meet ACT residency criteria

These rules ensure support goes to genuine first home buyers.

Income Requirements

Some ACT programs place income limits, including the Home Buyer Concession Scheme. Income caps are based on:

  • Number of applicants
  • Number of dependants
  • Total household income

If your income is within the threshold, you might be eligible for substantial savings on stamp duty.

What You Can Receive Under the ACT First Home Owners Grant System

Available benefits can save buyers thousands of dollars, although there is no cash grant.

1. Stamp Duty Concessions

Eligible first home purchasers may pay reduced or zero stamp duty. Depending on the property value, this can mean the following:

  • Savings ranging from AUD $5,000 to AUD $20,000

This greatly reduces the up-front settlement costs.

2. Shared Equity Opportunities

The shared equity programs involve the government holding a share of your property in exchange for the amount it pays on your behalf. It does so in order to help:

  • Lower monthly repayments
  • Reduce your required deposit
  • Increase borrowing capacity

3. Federal Home Buyer Programs

Many ACT purchasers also couple local concessions with federal schemes, including:

  • First Home Guarantee (5% deposit, no LMI)
  • Family Home Guarantee
  • Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee

The usage of both the ACT and federal support can make the process of buying much easier.

Step-by-Step Application Process for ACT Concessions

Applying for ACT home buyer concessions is easy. Most are handled online through the ACT Revenue Office.

How It Works: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1 – Verify Your Eligibility

Check your age, income, residency status, and ownership history.

Step 2 – Property Eligibility Check

Ensure the property meets ACT value limits and that it will be your principal residence.

Step 3 – Apply

Your solicitor or conveyancer normally applies at the time of settlement.

Step 4 – Prepare Documents Required

You will need:

  • Identity documents
  • Income statements
  • The sale contract
  • Residency declaration

Step 5 – Approval

The concession is applied directly at settlement upon approval.

Why Work with Taz Mortgage Solutions?

ACT home buyer programs can be pretty tricky unless supported by a professional. Taz Mortgage Solutions can make things easier by guiding first home buyers on how to:

  • Understand ACT concessions and shared equity options
  • Compare loans from trusted Australian lenders
  • Combine ACT and federal programs for maximum savings
  • Prepare precise documentation
  • Opt for a loan that best suits long-term financial goals

Our aim is to ensure your first home-buying experience is smooth, cheap, and hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the ACT still offer a First Home Owners Grant?

No. The FHOG scheme, as it originally existed, is over; there are many better long-term support options available to everyone now.

2. What replaced the ACT First Home Owners Grant?

Stamp duty concessions, the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, and shared equity programs.

3. Does new home construction qualify?

Yes, while there is no cash grant, there is the possibility of large stamp duty savings for eligible buyers.

4. Are these benefits available for investment properties?

No, they are only for owner-occupied first homes.

5. Can I apply without a mortgage broker?

Yes, but working with Taz Mortgage Solutions helps ensure you receive every benefit you qualify for.

Ready to buy your first home in the ACT?
Get expert guidance on the ACT First Home Owners Grant and home loan options with Taz Mortgage Solutions.

📞 Phone: +61 434 195 308
📧 Email: info@tazmortgagesolutions.com.au
👉Contact Us