Navigating ACT Home Buyer Incentives: Your Guide to Government Schemes

If you're considering buying a home in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), there are several government schemes designed to help first-home buyers, downsizers, and others in need of support. Here’s an overview of the current ACT home buyer incentives to make your journey to homeownership more affordable and accessible.

ACT Government schemes provide incentives for first-home buyers, downsizers, and individuals with disabilities in Canberra.

1. Home Buyer Concession Scheme (HBCS)

The Home Buyer Concession Scheme (HBCS) is tailored to assist first-home buyers and those who haven’t owned property in the last five years. Under this scheme, eligible buyers can receive a full stamp duty exemption on property purchases up to $1,020,000.

Key Points:

• From 1 July 2024, income eligibility will be increased to a maximum of $250,000 annually, with an additional $4,600 per dependent child.

• Buyers impacted by family violence who have previously owned property within the past five years are also eligible.

2. Off-the-Plan Duty Concession

The Off-the-Plan Duty Concession provides substantial stamp duty reductions for buyers purchasing off-the-plan unit-titled apartments or townhouses. This concession applies to properties purchased off-plan and was developed to encourage the construction of more affordable housing within the ACT.

Benefits:

• Increases the property value limit to $1,020,000 from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026.

• Supports first-home buyers and upgraders looking for newly built or pre-construction properties.

3. RZ1 Unit Duty Exemption Scheme

A unique offering in the ACT, the RZ1 Unit Duty Exemption Scheme provides stamp duty concessions for dual-occupancy homes on RZ1 residential blocks. This initiative is intended to make suburban living more accessible and is part of a broader effort to address housing affordability.

Details:

• Full duty exemption is available on eligible properties valued up to $1,020,000 from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026.

4. Disability Duty Concession Scheme

The Disability Duty Concession Scheme aims to assist people with disabilities in purchasing a home that meets their specific needs. Eligible buyers can receive a full or partial stamp duty concession depending on their disability level. Additionally, starting 1 July 2025, individuals with severe disabilities and their carers can qualify for complete stamp duty exemptions if the property is their primary residence and valued at $1,020,000 or less.

Advantages:

• Enhanced support for individuals with disabilities and their families.

• Full duty exemptions to reduce the financial burden on those needing specialized living arrangements.

5. Pensioner Duty Concession Scheme

The Pensioner Duty Concession Scheme is a targeted program to help eligible seniors downsize by providing significant stamp duty concessions on property purchases. This scheme is intended to make it easier for older individuals to move into homes better suited to their current lifestyle without the prohibitive costs of stamp duty.

Eligibility Highlights:

• Applies to homes valued up to $1,020,000 from 1 July 2025.

• Enables pensioners to relocate to more manageable homes or closer to family without the heavy stamp duty costs.

These incentive schemes reflect the ACT Government’s commitment to providing support across various demographic groups, from first-time buyers to pensioners and people with disabilities. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to make housing more accessible, reduce financial burdens, and stimulate development in the ACT.

Each scheme has specific eligibility requirements, so it’s essential to understand which incentives you may qualify for and how they align with your property goals. To explore these options further and get personalized advice, you can consult a local mortgage broker or visit the ACT Revenue Office website. By understanding and leveraging these schemes, prospective buyers in the ACT can take important steps toward achieving home ownership with added financial support.​

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this website is for general information and educational purposes only. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs, and should not be relied upon as financial, legal, or tax advice. While we strive to ensure the content is accurate and up to date, we make no guarantees of its completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on the information is strictly at your own risk. We recommend that you seek independent professional advice before making any financial decisions, including from a licensed mortgage broker, financial adviser, or tax professional. References to government schemes, grants, or lender products are subject to change and eligibility criteria. Please confirm details with the relevant authority or provider. We are not responsible for any loss, liability, or damage incurred as a result of the use of this website or its content.