Buying your first home is a big step, and in Queensland, the First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) can help eligible first home buyers. This one-off, tax-free payment gives first home owners grant QLD applicants extra money to buy or build a new property.
Since 20 November 2023, the grant amount has doubled to $30,000 for eligible transactions signed within this period. This makes it one of the largest state-based incentives in Australia.
In this guide, we explain what the FHOG is, who qualifies under the eligibility criteria, how to apply, and how it works alongside other schemes such as the first home concession, stamp duty concessions, and the First Home Guarantee by Housing Australia.
What is the First Home Owners Grant QLD?
The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a payment from the Queensland Government to support first home buyers in Queensland. It is a one-off, tax-free sum designed to reduce the purchase price or construction cost of buying or building a new home.
The grant amount depends on the contract date:
- $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025
- $15,000 for contracts signed before or after the current scheme ends
The grant applies only to brand-new homes that have never been lived in or sold as a principal place of residence. Eligible properties include:
- Newly built houses, units, or townhouses
- Substantially renovated homes considered new under the eligibility requirements
- Off-the-plan apartments
- House and vacant land packages with a separate contract to build
Established homes are not eligible for the grant. The aim is to boost construction while giving first home owners grant QLD applicants a financial head start.
The FHOG is separate from federal programs such as the First Home Guarantee administered by Housing Australia, but many buyers can combine the two for greater savings.
Who is Eligible for FHOG QLD?
You need to meet several eligibility criteria to qualify for the grant. These rules ensure the FHOG supports genuine first home buyers.
Basic eligibility requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old
- You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident (some New Zealand citizens also qualify)
- Applications must be made by natural persons, not companies or trusts
First home ownership rule:
- You and your partner must not have owned residential property in Australia as your principal place of residence since 1 July 2000
- You must not have previously received the FHOG in any state or territory
Property value and type limits:
- The total value of the home and land must be under $750,000, including any contract variations
- The property can be a new house, townhouse, apartment, off-the-plan purchase, or a substantially renovated home meeting eligibility requirements
Residence and occupancy requirements:
- You must move in within 12 months of settlement or completion (foundations laid and building complete)
- You must occupy the property as your principal place of residence for at least six continuous months
Who is excluded:
- Companies or trusts
- Investors who do not intend to occupy the home as their principal place of residence
- Buyers of established homes or investment properties
The Queensland Revenue Office carefully reviews applications to confirm eligibility. Providing complete and accurate documents is essential.
What Properties Qualify for the Grant?
The FHOG applies only to new homes and eligible transactions. The property must never have been lived in or sold before you purchase it.
Eligible properties:
- Newly built houses, units, or townhouses
- House and vacant land packages with a separate contract to build
- Off-the-plan properties
- Substantially renovated homes that meet eligibility criteria
- Owner-builder projects where foundations have been laid and the home is certified
Not eligible:
- Established or second-hand homes
- Homes previously occupied or sold as a place of residence
- Investment properties
- Minor renovations, such as painting or replacing fixtures
Value cap: The total value of the home and land must be less than $750,000, including all contract variations.
These rules support new construction and help more Queenslanders enter the property market as first home owners.
How to Apply for the First Home Owners Grant QLD
Applying for the grant is straightforward if you meet the eligibility criteria and prepare your documents. You can apply either through an approved agent (usually your lender) or directly with the Queensland Revenue Office (QRO).
Through an approved agent:
- Most first home buyers apply this way
- The grant is paid at settlement for purchases or at the first loan drawdown for construction
- This option is faster as it links to your home loan process
Direct to QRO:
- You can apply directly if you are not using a bank or broker
- The grant is paid after the property is complete; for purchases, this is when your name is registered on the title, and for builds, after the final inspection certificate
- This option may take longer
Required documents include:
- Completed application form
- Proof of ID (driver’s licence, passport, or birth certificate)
- Signed contract for the home purchase or build (including separate contracts for vacant land and building if applicable)
- Proof of Australian citizenship or permanent residency
- Evidence of settlement or completion (including final inspection certificates)
Deadline: You must apply within one year of settlement or final inspection date.
Being organised with your documents will help avoid delays in confirming your eligibility.
Can the FHOG Be Used as a Deposit?
Many first home buyers ask if the FHOG can be used towards their deposit.
- If you apply through an agent, the grant is paid at settlement or first loan drawdown
- If you apply through the QRO, it is paid after settlement or once the build is complete
This means the grant money is not available when you first need to pay your deposit. While lenders may consider the grant in your loan assessment, it is not safe to rely on it for upfront costs.
The best approach is to save your deposit independently. Once the grant is paid, you can use it to reduce your loan balance or cover other expenses.
Other First Home Owner Incentives in QLD
The FHOG is one part of the support available to new buyers. Other incentives can reduce your upfront costs.
Stamp duty concessions:
- Full exemption if the property purchase price is under $500,000
- Partial concession if the property value is between $500,000 and $550,000
First Home Guarantee:
A federal scheme by Housing Australia that allows eligible buyers to purchase with as little as a 5% deposit without paying lenders mortgage insurance.
Combining schemes:
In many cases, first home owners grant QLD applicants can combine the FHOG, stamp duty concessions, and the First Home Guarantee. Together, these incentives can reduce upfront costs by tens of thousands of dollars.
Consulting a broker or financial adviser can help you understand which combination best suits your circumstances.
FAQs About FHOG QLD
1. How long does it take to receive the grant?
If you apply through an agent, payment usually occurs at settlement or first loan drawdown. If applying directly through QRO, payment is after settlement or final inspection. Processing times vary but are typically within a few weeks.
2. Do renovations qualify?
Only substantial renovations that meet eligibility criteria count. Cosmetic upgrades like new flooring or painting do not qualify.
3. Can I apply with my partner?
Yes. Couples can apply together, but both applicants must meet eligibility requirements. If either has owned property or received the grant before, the application will be denied.
4. What if I move out early?
You must occupy the home as your principal place of residence for at least six months within the first year. Failure to meet this residence requirement may result in repayment of the grant.
5. Why are applications rejected?
Common reasons include exceeding the $750,000 value cap, applying for an established home, not meeting residence requirements, or incomplete documentation.
FHOG Qld Next Steps
The First Home Owners Grant QLD provides up to $30,000 for eligible first home buyers purchasing or building new homes. It cannot be used for established properties, and applicants must meet strict eligibility criteria.
Although the grant usually cannot be part of your deposit, it works well combined with stamp duty concessions and the First Home Guarantee. Together, these incentives help more Queenslanders achieve home ownership.
Before applying, review the eligibility requirements, gather your documents, and seek professional advice if needed. Preparing early will help you confirm eligibility and use the grant to start your journey as a first home owner with confidence.
