Your Complete 2026 Guide to the First Home Owners Grant in Victoria
Your Path to Home Ownership
Buying your first home is a significant milestone, one that not only marks personal achievement but also provides a sense of security.
Australian Building Company understands that the path to home ownership can be both thrilling and daunting. Thankfully, the Victorian Government offers a valuable resource to assist you: the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG). This guide delves into everything you need to know about the FHOG, including eligibility criteria, the application process, and practical tips to maximise your benefits.
Beyond the FHOG, first home buyers in Victoria should also consider federal support schemes and stamp duty concessions that could save you thousands. And when you're ready, our team can help make the paperwork and next steps feel Easy As.
But first...
What is the First Home Owner Grant?
The First Home Owner Grant is a government initiative designed to assist first-time homebuyers in purchasing or building their first home. In Victoria, the grant provides a one-off payment of $10,000 to eligible applicants, easing the financial burden of acquiring a new home and helping more Victorians step into the property market.
Eligibility Criteria
To take advantage of the First Home Owner Grant in Victoria, it's crucial to understand the eligibility requirements. Here's what you need to know:
- First Home Buyer: You and your spouse or partner must meet Victoria's FHOG first home buyer rules. This includes not having previously received the FHOG anywhere in Australia, and meeting restrictions on residential property owned before 1 July 2000 or lived in for a continuous period of at least 6 months on or after 1 July 2000.
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of settlement or construction completion.
- Citizenship: At least one applicant must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. For settlements on or after 26 November 2025, New Zealand citizens are eligible to apply whether or not they hold a Special Category visa.
- New Home: The property must be new under Victorian rules. This includes homes that have not been previously sold or occupied as a place of residence, substantially renovated homes that meet the SRO's criteria, and homes built to replace demolished premises.
- Property Value: The total value of the property, including land and home, must not exceed $750,000.
- Residence Requirement: At least one applicant must live in the home as their principal place of residence for a continuous period of at least 12 months, commencing within 12 months of settlement or construction completion.
- Previous Grants: Neither you nor your spouse/partner should have received a First Home Owner Grant in any Australian state or territory.
- Trusts and Companies: The grant is available only to individuals, not trusts or companies.
How to Apply for the First Home Owner Grant
Applying for the FHOG can be straightforward (and as easy as ABC) if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Gather Required Documentation
Before starting the application, ensure you have:
- Proof of Identity: Birth certificate, passport, or driver’s license.
- Citizenship or Residency Proof: If you are a permanent resident, provide your residency documentation.
- Contract of Sale: A copy for completed new homes.
- Building Contract: For those constructing a new home.
- Proof of Settlement or Completion: Settlement statement or certificate of occupancy.
Required documents can vary depending on whether you're building a new home or buying one that's already finished, so check the SRO website for the latest list.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Applications can be submitted through your lender or approved agent, or directly with the State Revenue Office (SRO) Victoria. Forms are available on the SRO website or from your lender. Ensure the form is completed accurately with all necessary details.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Submit your completed form and required documents to your lender or the SRO. If applying through a lender, they will lodge the application on your behalf.
Step 4: Await Approval
Processing times can vary depending on the application and lender/SRO requirements. If approved, the grant will be paid directly to your lender or into your bank account if no loan is involved.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Double-Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all criteria before applying.
- Accurate Documentation: Provide complete and correct documents to avoid delays.
- Timely Submission: Apply as early as possible to meet any deadlines.
- Professional Advice: Consider consulting a financial advisor or mortgage broker for guidance.
- Check Current Settings: FHOG settings and related concessions can change, so confirm cut-off dates and grant amounts with the SRO before signing contracts.
Additional Benefits and Concessions
First-time homebuyers in Victoria may be eligible for additional benefits, including:
- Stamp Duty Concessions: Depending on your situation, you may qualify for reductions or exemptions. The temporary Off-the-Plan stamp duty concession has also been extended, and is available for eligible contracts entered into on or before 21 October 2026. This can significantly reduce the dutiable value for qualifying buyers.
- First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS): Allows savings within superannuation for home deposits with tax benefits.
- First Home Guarantee (5% Deposit Scheme): Since October 2025, income caps and annual place limits have been removed. Property price caps sit at $950,000 for Melbourne and Geelong, and $650,000 for the rest of Victoria. This means eligible buyers can purchase with just a 5% deposit and avoid paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance.
- Help to Buy Scheme: The federal Help to Buy shared equity scheme opened for applications in December 2025. Eligible buyers can purchase with a 2% deposit, with the government contributing up to 40% equity for new homes and 30% for existing homes. Income caps are strict: $100,000 for individuals and $160,000 for couples. Property price caps match the First Home Guarantee at $950,000 for Melbourne and Geelong, and $650,000 for the rest of Victoria.
Ready to take the first step?
The First Home Owner Grant in Victoria is a valuable resource, offering financial support to help you achieve your homeownership dreams. By understanding the eligibility criteria and following the application process, you can maximise your benefits. Australian Building Company is here to support you in this process. For more information or assistance, visit the State Revenue Office Victoria website or contact our expert advisors today.
Ready to take the first step toward homeownership? Visit the State Revenue Office Victoria website for detailed information and application forms. If you have questions, Australian Building Company is here to help. Reach out to our team for personalised guidance and support on your path to owning your first home.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main grant is the Victorian First Home Owner Grant (FHOG), a one-off $10,000 payment for eligible buyers of new homes valued at $750,000 or less. On top of that, federal schemes like the First Home Guarantee (5% deposit, no LMI) and the Help to Buy shared equity scheme can further reduce upfront costs. Stamp duty concessions and the FHSSS also help lower the total amount you need.
There is no specific Victorian scheme commonly known as a "25% scheme." You may be thinking of the stamp duty concession that applies on a sliding scale for properties valued between $600,000 and $750,000, or the federal Help to Buy scheme where the government can take an equity share (up to 40% for new homes, 30% for existing homes). We'd recommend checking the SRO Victoria website or speaking with one of our New Home Advisors to clarify which program applies to your situation.
First home buyers purchasing a property valued at $600,000 or less are exempt from stamp duty in Victoria. For properties valued between $600,001 and $750,000, a concession applies on a sliding scale. The extended Off-the-Plan concession (available for contracts entered into on or before 21 October 2026) can also reduce the dutiable value for eligible purchases.
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