Complete Guide to the First Home Buyers Grant in QLD: Eligibility, Application & Updates

Introduction

Buying your first home is a major milestone, but the financial hurdles can feel overwhelming. To ease this process, the Queensland Government offers the First Home Buyers Grant (FHOG), a financial boost designed to help first-time buyers get into the property market. With new updates extending into June 2026, this guide breaks down what the FHOG means for 2025 to 2026, covering eligibility, application steps and key updates.

What is the First Home Buyers Grant?

The FHOG is a one-off, tax-free payment from the Queensland Government for eligible first-time home buyers purchasing a newly built home, off-the-plan property, or substantially renovated dwelling.

As of 2025 to 2026:

• $30,000 is available for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2026; and

• $15,000 is available for contracts signed before 20 November 2023.

This grant can help cover upfront costs or supplement your deposit. However, it is not automatic. You must meet strict eligibility criteria and apply through the right channels.

Who is Eligible?

To qualify for the FHOG in Queensland, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old;

• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident;

• Have never owned residential property in Australia;

• Live in the home as your principal place of residence within one year of settlement; and

• Purchase a property valued at $750,000 or less.

The home must be new, meaning it has not been previously occupied or sold. This includes off-the-plan apartments, newly constructed houses, or substantially renovated homes where most of the structure is new. Owner-builders may also qualify if the finished dwelling meets these requirements.

What Properties Qualify?

Eligible properties include:

• Newly built homes;

• Off-the-plan purchases; and

• Substantially renovated homes with mostly new structure.

Excluded properties:

• Established (lived-in) homes; 

• Properties over $750,000; and

• Vacant land unless it is part of a linked house-and-land package

How Much Can You Get?

The grant is paid once per property, not per applicant. Couples applying jointly receive a single grant.

How to Apply

There are two ways to apply:

Apply through an approved lender who submits the grant application on your behalf. This is the fastest and most straightforward option for most buyers. Alternatively, you can apply directly through the Queensland Revenue Office (QRO) using their online platform. This gives you full control but may take longer and require more paperwork.

You will need:

• Proof of identity (such as a passport or driver’s licence);

• A signed contract of sale or building contract;

• Evidence you intend to move in (e.g., a utility bill after settlement); and

• Additional supporting documents, depending on your circumstances.

Apply early to avoid delays, especially if you’re managing your own application. If applying through a lender, the grant is typically processed during your loan approval.

Common Mistakes

First-time buyers often make the following errors:

• Assuming established homes qualify;

• Not checking eligibility before signing the contract; and/or

• Submitting incomplete applications or missing documents.

These can cause delays or result in a rejected application.

Other Support for First Home Buyers

The FHOG isn’t the only support available. You may also be eligible for:

• Stamp duty concessions: Full exemption for new or established homes under $700,000; discounted rates up to $800,000. Full exemption for vacant land (from May 2025).

• First Home Guarantee Scheme: Buy with a 5% deposit and no lenders mortgage insurance (separate from FHOG); and

• Regional or builder-specific grants: Check for local incentives.

Conclusion

The First Home Buyers Grant is a valuable opportunity for Queenslanders looking to enter the property market. With up to $30,000 in assistance available, it can significantly reduce your upfront costs. But eligibility requirements are strict, and your application needs to be complete and accurate.

From selecting the right property to preparing and submitting documents, every step matters. 

If you’re planning to buy your first home, take the time to understand the grant rules, prepare your documents early, and consider expert support to ensure a smooth experience from application to settlement.

Disclaimer: The above information is general in nature and does not constitute legal, financial or tax advice. Everyone’s circumstances are different. You should consult your Accountant or Lawyer for advice tailored to your specific situation.