New Queensland home build eligible for grants and duty concessions
The Queensland First Home Owner Grant: Securing the $30,000 Boost in 2026
For aspiring property buyers in Queensland, the Queensland First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) represents one of the most generous homeownership subsidies in Australian history. Following state budget expansions that doubled the grant from $15,000 to $30,000 for eligible transactions, the scheme provides vital non-repayable capital to bridge the deposit gap. Administered by the Queensland Revenue Office (QRO), navigating the eligibility rules is critical to ensure approval.
Core Eligibility Criteria: Who Qualifies for the $30,000?
To qualify for the $30,000 grant under the First Home Owner Grant and Other Home Owner Grants Act 2000, applicants must satisfy several strict statutory conditions:
- First Home Requirement: You and your spouse or de facto partner must never have previously held a residential property interest anywhere in Australia before 1 July 2000, nor owned property after that date that you occupied as a home.
- Citizenship or Permanent Residency: At least one applicant must be an Australian citizen or Australian permanent resident (or a New Zealander holding an active Special Category Visa Subclass 444).
- Age: You must be an individual aged 18 years or older at the date of contract execution.
- Residence Obligation: You must occupy the property as your principal place of residence (PPR) for a continuous period of at least six months, commencing within 12 months of settlement or construction completion.
Property Eligibility: Brand-New Dwellings Only
The grant applies exclusively to brand-new, never-before-occupied residential dwellings:
- Brand-New Off-the-Plan Apartments: Newly constructed residential apartments purchased directly from a developer where titles are issued for the first time.
- House and Land Packages: Newly constructed standalone homes on vacant land.
- Value Ceiling: The total transaction value (including land and dwelling) must be $750,000 or less. Properties exceeding $750,000 forfeit the grant entirely.
Application Channels and Settlement Timing
Applicants submit their claim either directly through their approved mortgage lender during home loan approval, or independently via the QRO online portal within one year of completing settlement. Funds for off-the-plan acquisitions are credited at final settlement. Explore Broadbeach residences or explore Surfers Paradise residences with BARTA Property specialists.
maximising Your Purchasing Power
Verify that your builder holds active QBCC licensing, as uncertified owner-builder projects face restricted grant eligibility. Calculate your total government grants and model borrowing power using BARTA Property finance tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Queensland First Home Owner Grant in 2026?
The Queensland First Home Owner Grant is $30,000 for eligible brand-new homes, off-the-plan apartments, or newly constructed dwellings valued up to $750,000.
Can I get the $30,000 grant for an established second-hand home?
No. The $30,000 grant is strictly restricted to brand-new residential dwellings that have never previously been occupied as a residence or rented out.
What is the maximum purchase price to qualify for the QLD grant?
The total purchase value of the property (including land and all construction contracts) must not exceed $750,000.
How long must I live in the home to keep the grant?
You must move into the home within 12 months of completion and reside in the property as your principal place of residence for at least six continuous months.
Can New Zealand citizens apply for the Queensland grant?
Yes. New Zealand citizens holding a Special Category Visa (Subclass 444) who reside in Australia are eligible to apply if they meet all standard grant criteria.
Jayden Barta
BARTA Property • Gold Coast & Brisbane
Specialising in prestige developments, off-the-plan apartments, and residential projects across South East Queensland.
