Key takeaways
- The FHOG is a one-off state cash grant for eligible first-home buyers.
- In most states it now applies to new builds rather than established homes.
- It’s separate from — and often combines with — stamp duty concessions and the First Home Guarantee.
- Amounts, caps and rules vary by state and change over time.
Of all the first-home help on offer, the FHOG is the one that actually puts cash toward your purchase. It’s also the most misunderstood, because it’s a state scheme (so it differs everywhere) and it’s often confused with the federal First Home Guarantee. Here’s the clear version.
What it is
The First Home Owner Grant is a lump sum your state or territory pays eligible first-home buyers. In most states it’s now aimed at new homes — newly built, off-the-plan, or land you build on — rather than established dwellings, and there’s usually a price cap. The amount varies by state and is reviewed periodically.
The three benefits, untangled
- FHOG — a state cash grant, usually for new homes.
- First Home Guarantee — a federal scheme to buy with a 5% deposit and no LMI; no cash, just a government guarantee.
- Stamp duty concessions — a reduction or exemption on the state transfer tax.
They’re distinct, and eligible buyers can often use all three together — which is where the biggest savings come from.
Because the FHOG usually favours new builds while stamp duty concessions may favour lower-priced established homes, the “best” combination depends on what and where you buy. Running the numbers on both paths before you commit can be worth thousands.
How to claim it
The grant is usually applied for through your lender or conveyancer around settlement, using state forms and proof of eligibility. Getting it right — and timed correctly — matters, especially for new builds where the grant may be paid at a particular stage. It fits into the wider journey covered in our first home buyer guide.
Broker Insight. The grant, stamp duty concessions and the First Home Guarantee are separate — and often stackable. We regularly help buyers claim more than one at once, which is where the real savings appear.
Find every dollar you’re entitled to
We’ll check your eligibility for the FHOG, stamp duty concessions and the First Home Guarantee against current rules — and show you the combination that saves the most. Free, no obligation.
Book your free game plan callFrequently asked questions
What is the First Home Owner Grant?
The FHOG is a one-off cash grant paid by your state or territory government to eligible first-home buyers — in most states now directed at buying or building a new home rather than an established one. The amount and the rules differ by state and change over time. It’s real money toward your purchase, separate from stamp duty concessions and the First Home Guarantee.
How is the FHOG different from the First Home Guarantee?
They’re separate schemes that can often be used together. The FHOG is a state cash grant, usually for new homes. The First Home Guarantee is a federal scheme that lets you buy with a 5% deposit and no LMI — no cash changes hands, the government just acts as guarantor. One helps with the deposit gap; the other adds funds. Stamp duty concessions are a third, distinct benefit.
Can I use the FHOG with stamp duty concessions?
In most states, yes — the grant, stamp duty concessions and the First Home Guarantee are designed to be combined where you’re eligible for each. Because the rules and caps vary by state and change with budgets, the reliable way to know your total benefit is to have your exact situation checked against current rules.
This guide is general information only and does not take your personal circumstances into account. It is not financial or credit advice. Government schemes, lender policies, rates and tax rules change over time and eligibility criteria apply. Speak with us for advice tailored to your situation.