What’s Really Happening in theAustralian Housing Market Right Now? (July 2025 Update)

Getting into the property market can bechallenging — especially with rising living costs, interest rates, and upfrontexpenses like deposits and stamp duty. But the good news is, there’s a range ofgovernment schemes and grants designed to help first-home buyers andeligible borrowers get ahead.

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular governmentincentives currently available in Australia, what they offer, and who canapply.

1. First Home Guarantee (FHBG)

✅ Buy with aslittle as 5% deposit – no Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI)

The First Home Guarantee is a federalgovernment initiative that allows eligible first-home buyers to purchase aproperty with just 5% deposit, while the government guarantees up to 15%of the loan.

Key Benefits:

• Avoid paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (can save you     thousands)
• Faster entry into the market with a smaller deposit
• Available through participating lenders only

Eligibility Criteria:

• Australian citizens or permanent residents
• Must be a first-home buyer
• Individual income under $125,000 (or $200,000 for couples)
• Property price caps apply (based on location)

2. First Home Owner Grant (FHOG)

✅ One-offpayment for eligible first-home buyers

Each state and territory offers a FirstHome Owner Grant, which is typically available if you’re buying or buildinga brand new home.

Grant amounts differ by state, but range from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on the propertyand location.

Example – NSW:

• $10,000 grant for new homes up to $750,000 or building up to     $750,000
• Must be your first home and used as your principal place of     residence

Check your state’s revenue office for thelatest criteria and amounts.

3. Stamp Duty Concessions &Exemptions

✅ Save thousandsin upfront costs

Stamp duty is a significant upfront costwhen buying a property, but most states offer full or partial exemptionsfor eligible first-home buyers.

Example – VIC:

• No stamp duty on homes up to $600,000
• Concessions available for homes up to $750,000
• Available to first-home buyers using the property as their main     residence

Each state has its own rules and thresholds— so it’s worth checking based on where you're buying.

4. Family Home Guarantee (FHG)

✅ Buy with just2% deposit – for single parents

The Family Home Guarantee supports singleparents with at least one dependent child, allowing them to buy a home withas little as 2% deposit and no LMI.

Key Facts:

• Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
• Can be a first-home buyer or previous homeowner
• Income cap: $125,000
• Property price caps apply

This scheme can be a game-changer forsingle parents looking to re-enter or enter the property market.

5. Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee

✅ Aimed atboosting home ownership in regional areas

This scheme helps eligible buyers purchasea home in regional Australia with as little as 5% deposit and no LMI,similar to the First Home Guarantee — but specifically for regionallocations.

To qualify:

• Must have lived in the region or surrounding area for at least     12 months
• First-home buyer status applies
• Same income caps and property price limits as FHBG

6. First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS)

✅ Use your superto save for a home faster

This federal initiative allows you to make voluntarysuper contributions (up to $15,000/year and $50,000 total) and thenwithdraw those savings to use as a deposit for your first home.

Why it helps:

• You may pay less tax on your savings
• Can grow your deposit faster than in a normal bank account

Ideal for first-home buyers with time toplan and maximise savings.

Final Thoughts: You May Be Eligible forMore Than One

Many first-home buyers don’t realise theycan combine several of these schemes — such as using the First HomeOwner Grant and getting stamp duty relief, or buying with a smallerdeposit using the First Home Guarantee.

As a mortgage broker, I help my clientsunderstand which grants and schemes they qualify for, and how to usethem to their full advantage — especially when combined with the right loanstructure.

Need Help Navigating Your Options?

If you’re thinking about buying your firsthome or investing in property, it pays to get expert advice early.

📞 Booka free chat today to find out:

• What grants or schemes you're eligible for
• How much you could borrow
• What lenders are currently offering special rates for     first-home buyers

Let’s make buying your home easier.