Can my partner and I both claim the First Home Owner Grant?

No. The FHOG is paid once per transaction, not per person. If you're buying jointly, you receive one grant between you — not one each.

What if one of us has owned property before?

If either buyer on the title has previously owned residential property in Australia, neither buyer is eligible for the FHOG. This applies regardless of the state where the previous property was owned.

Do I have to be an Australian citizen to claim?

Most grants require at least one applicant to be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. Temporary visa holders are generally not eligible. Some states allow New Zealand citizens on a Special Category Visa to apply.

What counts as a "new home" for the grant?

A new home is a property that has not been previously occupied or sold as a place of residence. This includes newly built homes, substantially renovated homes, and off-the-plan purchases where you are the first occupant.

Can I use the grant as part of my deposit?

In some states, yes. The grant can be applied at settlement and counted toward your upfront funds. However, many lenders require you to have genuine savings of a certain amount independently of the grant.

First home buyer grants and exemptions by state in 2026

Complete guide to first home buyer grants, stamp duty exemptions, and government schemes in every Australian state and territory in 2026.