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First Home Buyers

What is the First Home Owner Grant & how does it work?

The First Home Owner Boost Scheme (the Boost) is an Australian Government initiative,  administered by the Victorian Government (State Revenue Office), to assist first home buyers purchase or build their first home.

Will I receive the grant if I only purchase vacant land?

No. You must have entered into a comprehensive home building contract or commence building as an owner builder on the land.

When does the grant end?
The scheme is on-going with no end date yet specified.

When must I move into the home?
At least one applicant must occupy the home as his or her principal place of residence within 12 months from either the date of settlement or completion of construction.

Is there a minimum time limit I have to reside in the property to get the grant?
At least one applicant must occupy the home as his or her principal place of residence for a continuous period of at least 6 months, commencing within 12 months of either the date of settlement or completion of construction.

How long do I have to apply for the grant after purchasing or building my home?
You have 12 months from either the date of settlement or completion of construction.

Are there any restrictions on what I can use the grant for?
No. Although if you are applying through your financial institution it may impose conditions.

My spouse/partner has owned a home prior to 1 July 2000. Am I still eligible?
No. If your spouse/partner has owned residential property, jointly, separately or with some other person before 1 July 2000, in any State or Territory of Australia, you will not be eligible.

My former spouse/partner owned a house and now I want to buy a home myself. Am I eligible?
Yes, provided the Commissioner of State Revenue is satisfied that you and your former spouse/partner are not living together and do not intend to resume living together and you meet all the other conditions.

If I buy a property with a friend, and both of us are eligible for the FHOG, do we both receive a grant?
There is only one grant payable per transaction, regardless of how many purchasers there are. Where there is more than one purchaser the grant is paid jointly.