The Queensland Government has announced a major boost for first home buyers in its 2025–26 State Budget, including an extension of the $30,000 First Home Owner Grant and stamp duty exemptions for eligible buyers of new homes. These measures are aimed at improving housing affordability and helping more Queenslanders enter the property market sooner.
$30,000 First Home Owner Grant Now Available Until 30 June 2026
In a move welcomed by the property and construction sectors, the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) in Queensland has been extended until 30 June 2026. This boosted $30,000 grant applies to:
- Buying a newly built home (house, townhouse, or unit),
- Building a brand-new home,
- Homes valued under the current eligibility cap.
The grant was initially due to expire in mid-2025, but the Crisafulli Government has extended it by 12 months to support first home buyers and encourage new residential construction across the state.
Key Eligibility Criteria:
- You must be buying or building a new home as your first property.
- You need to move in within 12 months and live there for at least 6 continuous months.
- You must be over 18 and an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
Stamp Duty Abolished for New Homes Purchased by First Home Buyers
Another significant policy shift is the removal of stamp duty for eligible first home buyers purchasing a new home in Queensland. This exemption can save buyers an average of $16,996 in upfront costs, based on current market figures.
This reform applies to contracts signed under the new legislation and is designed to ease cost-of-living pressures, particularly in a high interest rate environment.
First Home Buyers Can Now Rent Out a Room
In a practical update to existing rules, first home buyers can now rent out a room in their property without affecting their eligibility for the grant or stamp duty relief. This change reflects the realities of mortgage affordability in today’s market and supports buyers in managing repayments more flexibly.
How These Policies Support the Queensland Property Market
Queensland currently ranks at the bottom of the national home ownership rate. However, these changes are designed to:
- Boost first home buyer activity,
- Increase the construction of new housing stock,
- Provide financial relief amid rising property prices and inflation,
- Deliver long-term housing security across urban and regional areas.
Premier David Crisafulli stated that the measures are part of a wider goal to raise Queensland’s home ownership rate to the highest in Australia within the next decade.
What First Home Buyers in Queensland Should Consider
Before applying for the First Home Owner Grant or relying on stamp duty exemptions, buyers should consider:
- Whether their property qualifies as a “new home” under the legislation,
- Whether their intended use of the property (e.g., partial rental) complies with grant conditions,
- The timing of contract execution, which affects eligibility.
A clear understanding of eligibility requirements and legal obligations is essential to avoid unexpected repayments or penalties.
Final Thoughts: Opportunity for First Home Buyers in Queensland
The extended $30,000 First Home Owner Grant, combined with stamp duty exemptions and flexible use options, marks one of the most generous home ownership support packages currently available in Australia.
These reforms open the door for more Queenslanders to buy their first home while also boosting housing supply and job creation in the construction industry. For those considering buying their first home, now may be the ideal time to explore available support and plan with confidence.
