When your clients apply for a mortgage, banks don't just take their word for it regarding income and financial position. One of the most critical documents in the approval process is the accountant's letter – but why exactly do banks insist on this requirement?

What You'll Learn

The Banking Perspective: Risk Management Above All
What Banks Want to See in Accountant Letters
The Value Proposition for Mortgage Brokers
Common Challenges and Solutions
Best Practices for Mortgage Brokers

The Banking Perspective: Risk Management Above All

Banks are in the business of lending money, but they're also in the business of getting it back. Every loan represents a calculated risk, and accountant letters serve as independent verification of a borrower's true financial position.

Here's what banks are really looking for:

1. Independent Professional Verification

Banks need assurance that income figures aren't inflated or manipulated. An accountant's professional opinion carries legal weight and provides third-party validation that internal bookkeeping or self-reported figures simply cannot match.

2. Comprehensive Financial Health Assessment

While tax returns show historical performance, accountant letters provide:

Current year projections
Cash flow analysis
Business sustainability insights
Professional assessment of ongoing viability

3. Regulatory Compliance Requirements

Under APRA guidelines, banks must demonstrate due diligence in their lending decisions. Accountant letters help satisfy these regulatory requirements by showing the bank has obtained professional verification of borrower capacity.

What Banks Want to See in Accountant Letters

Essential Elements Include:

Confirmation of income figures and their sustainability
Assessment of business performance trends
Professional opinion on the borrower's ability to service debt
Verification of financial statements accuracy
Commentary on any unusual circumstances or seasonal variations

Red Flags Banks Watch For:

Declining revenue trends
Inconsistent cash flow patterns
High business expenses relative to income
Lack of business continuity indicators

The Value Proposition for Mortgage Brokers

Understanding why banks require these letters positions you to:

Educate Clients Proactively

Instead of clients being surprised by this requirement, you can prepare them during the initial consultation. This demonstrates your expertise and prevents delays in the application process.

Strengthen Professional Networks

Building relationships with qualified accountants who understand mortgage requirements creates a valuable referral network. Accountants who can write comprehensive, bank-friendly letters become invaluable partners.

Differentiate Your Service

Many brokers simply tell clients, "You need an accountant letter." You can explain the why behind the requirement, helping clients understand the process and feel more confident in your guidance.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge: Clients using basic bookkeepers who can't provide adequate letters.

Solution: Maintain a network of qualified accountants who specialise in mortgage-related documentation

Challenge: Accountant letters that lack sufficient detail.

Solution: Provide accountants with a template or checklist of bank requirements

Challenge: Timing delays when accountants are busy. Solution: Build relationships with multiple accounting firms and plan ahead during peak periods

Best Practices for Mortgage Brokers

Set Expectations Early: Explain the accountant letter requirement during initial consultations
Recommend Qualified Professionals: Partner with accountants who understand banking requirements
Plan for Timing: Factor in 48-72 hours for quality accountant letters
Review Before Submission: Ensure letters address all bank-specific requirements

The Bottom Line

Banks require accountant letters because they provide independent, professional verification that protects both the lender and the borrower. For mortgage brokers, understanding this requirement – and helping clients navigate it smoothly – demonstrates expertise and adds significant value to your service.

When you can explain not just what banks need, but why they need it, you position yourself as a trusted advisor rather than just another broker processing applications.

Ready to streamline your clients' accountant letter process?

Consider partnering with accounting firms that specialise in mortgage documentation and understand the urgency of your timelines. Call us!

How do I get help with this from the ATO?

The ATO provides guidance through ato.gov.au, the Small Business Support Line (13 28 66), and Online Services for individuals and businesses. For complex situations, a registered tax agent provides advice tailored to your specific circumstances and professional indemnity protection. You can verify agent registration at the TPB register at tpb.gov.au.

What records do I need to keep for tax purposes in Australia?

Most tax records must be kept for five years from the date of lodgement or the date the transaction occurred, whichever is later. Records must be in English or convertible to English and must be sufficient to explain the income and deductions in your return. The ATO can request records at any time during the retention period.

When do I need a registered tax agent in Australia?

Consider a registered tax agent when your affairs involve multiple income sources, business activity, investment properties, capital gains, or overseas income. Agents extend your lodgement deadline, provide safe harbour protection, and take professional responsibility for the advice given. Verify registration at tpb.gov.au.

How does the ATO calculate penalties for compliance failures?

The failure to lodge penalty is based on penalty units ($313 per unit from 1 July 2023), accruing per 28-day period for late returns and BAS lodgements. Incorrect information penalties range from 25% to 75% of the tax shortfall depending on whether the behaviour was careless, reckless, or intentional. Proactive disclosure before an audit begins typically results in significantly reduced penalties.

What is the difference between tax avoidance and tax minimisation?

Tax minimisation is the legal arrangement of your affairs to reduce tax — claiming all eligible deductions, using appropriate structures, and timing income and expenses. Tax avoidance involves arrangements that technically comply with the law but achieve outcomes parliament did not intend. The ATO can apply Part IVA anti-avoidance rules to cancel benefits from avoidance arrangements.

Investing in property can be a lucrative venture, but it also brings with it a host of financial responsibilities. Maximizing your investment property deductions is a crucial aspect of managing your property portfolio effectively. By understanding the ins and outs of property deductions, you can ensure that you are making the most of your investment. In this article, we will delve into the key strategies that will assist you in maximizing your investment property deductions.

Understanding Investment Property Deductions

Before we dive into the specific strategies, it is essential to have a strong foundation of understanding regarding investment property deductions. This section will provide you with the basics of property deductions, as well as introduce you to the key terms and concepts associated with this topic. Investing in property can be a lucrative venture, but it also comes with its fair share of expenses. However, the good news is that many of these expenses can be claimed as deductions, helping you reduce your taxable income and ultimately save on taxes. When it comes to investment property deductions, there are several key expenses that you can claim. These include interest on loans, property management fees, repairs and maintenance costs, insurance premiums, and depreciation. Let's take a closer look at each of these deductions:

Interest on Loans: If you have taken out a loan to finance your investment property, you can deduct the interest paid on that loan. This deduction can be a significant benefit, especially in the early years of your investment when interest payments are typically higher.
Property Management Fees: If you hire a property management company to handle the day-to-day operations of your investment property, the fees you pay them can be claimed as a deduction. This includes fees for advertising, tenant screening, rent collection, and property maintenance.
Repairs and Maintenance Costs: Any expenses incurred for repairs and maintenance of your investment property can be deducted. This includes fixing plumbing issues, repainting walls, replacing broken appliances, and other similar expenses. It is important to note that improvements that add value to the property, such as renovations, are not considered repairs and may not be fully deductible.
Insurance Premiums: The insurance premiums you pay to protect your investment property can also be claimed as a deduction. This includes coverage for property damage, liability, and rental income loss.
Depreciation: Depreciation refers to the gradual decrease in the value of an asset over time. In the context of property deductions, depreciation can be claimed as an expense, reflecting the wear and tear on your investment property. This deduction can be a significant benefit, as it allows you to account for the declining value of your property and recoup some of the initial investment.

To claim these deductions, it is essential to keep meticulous records of all relevant expense receipts and documents. This documentation will serve as evidence of your deductions and ensure that you are following the correct procedures when it comes to tax compliance. As you navigate the world of investment property deductions, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the key terms and concepts that you may encounter. Here are a few terms that you should be aware of:

Depreciation: Depreciation refers to the gradual decrease in the value of an asset over time. In the context of property deductions, depreciation can be claimed as an expense, reflecting the wear and tear on your investment property.
Taxable Income: This refers to the portion of your income that is subject to taxation after deductions have been applied. Maximising your deductions can reduce your taxable income and potentially lower your tax liability.
Tax Compliance: Tax compliance refers to adhering to the tax authorities' regulations and laws to report and pay taxes correctly. It is important to stay up to date with the latest tax laws and seek professional advice if needed to ensure you comply with all applicable regulations.

The Role of Depreciation in Maximizing Deductions

Depreciation is a crucial factor in maximising your investment property deductions. By understanding how depreciation works and how it impacts your deductions, you can optimise your financial position.

Depreciation Explained

Depreciation refers to the decrease in value of an asset over time due to wear and tear, aging, or obsolescence. In the context of investment property, both the building and the fixtures within it can be depreciated. There are two types of depreciation: capital works and plant and equipment. Capital works depreciation pertains to the building's structure, while plant and equipment depreciation relates to the assets within the building, such as air conditioning units, carpets, and furniture.

How Depreciation Impacts Your Deductions

Claiming depreciation as an expense can significantly impact your deductions and ultimately reduce your taxable income. By accurately calculating and claiming depreciation expenses, you can recoup a portion of the property's value over time. It is essential to engage a qualified quantity surveyor or tax depreciation specialist to conduct a depreciation schedule and maximize your deductions. This professional will assess your property and identify all depreciable assets, ensuring that you claim the maximum deduction available to you.

Strategies for Maximizing Your Deductions

Now that you have a solid understanding of investment property deductions and the role of depreciation, it's time to explore some strategies that can help you maximize your deductions and ultimately save on taxes.

Timing Your Expenses

Timing is key when it comes to maximizing your deductions. By carefully timing when you incur expenses, you can ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from your deductions. For example, if you are planning significant repairs or renovations on your property, strategically scheduling these expenses to span over different financial years can help you optimize your deductions. Additionally, keeping detailed records of all your expenses throughout the year will make it easier to claim deductions when tax time rolls around. Utilizing accounting software or apps specifically designed for property investors can simplify expense tracking and ensure that nothing falls through the cracks.

Utilizing Professional Services

When it comes to navigating the complex world of property deductions, professional guidance can be invaluable. Engaging the services of a qualified accountant or tax advisor who specializes in investment properties can provide you with expert advice tailored to your specific circumstances. A knowledgeable professional can help you identify all eligible deductions, ensure that you are complying with tax regulations, and maximize your tax savings. This investment in professional services can yield significant financial benefits and provide peace of mind.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While maximizing your investment property deductions is essential, it is equally important to avoid common pitfalls and mistakes that could undermine your efforts. Let's explore some of the common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Overlooking Small Deductions

It's easy to focus on significant expenses when it comes to property deductions but overlooking small expenses can add up over time. Every deductible expense counts, so it's important to meticulously track and document even the smallest costs. Keeping a dedicated folder or digital file for all your expense receipts and invoices will ensure that you have a comprehensive record of all eligible deductions. This attention to detail will help you maximize your savings and reduce the risk of missing out on potential deductions.

Misunderstanding the Rules

Another common mistake property investors make is misunderstanding the rules and regulations surrounding investment property deductions. Tax laws can be complex and subject to change, so it's crucial to stay informed and up to date with the latest legislation. Regularly reviewing the relevant tax authorities' websites, attending property investment seminars, or joining investor forums can provide you with valuable insights and help you stay ahead of any changes. Seeking professional advice when needed can also help clarify any confusion or gray areas.

Navigating Tax Laws and Regulations

The landscape of tax laws and regulations is ever-evolving. As an investment property owner, it is crucial to stay up to date with any changes that may impact your deductions. Let's explore some strategies for navigating this complex environment.

Keeping Up with Changes

Staying informed and proactive is key to navigating the ever-changing tax landscape. Subscribing to newsletters or updates from tax authorities, consulting with professionals, and regularly reviewing the relevant legislation will help ensure that you are aware of any changes that may affect your deductions. Allocating dedicated time each year to review your investment property deductions and staying up to date with any new rules or regulations will set you up for success and prevent any unpleasant surprises at tax time.

Seeking Legal Advice

Tax laws can be complex, and seeking legal advice can provide you with the clarity and assurance you need to navigate this terrain successfully. Consulting with a qualified real estate attorney can help you navigate any legal complexities specific to your investment property and ensure that you are fully compliant with all relevant regulations.

Conclusion

Maximising your investment property deductions requires a solid understanding of the key strategies and concepts involved. By effectively utilising depreciation, strategically timing your expenses, and seeking professional advice, you can optimise your deductions and save on taxes. It is crucial to avoid common mistakes such as overlooking small deductions and misunderstanding the rules. By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate the ever-changing tax landscape successfully. Remember, maximising your investment property deductions takes time, effort, and attention to detail, but the financial benefits make it well worth the investment. By implementing the strategies outlined in this article, you can make substantial tax savings and maximise the return on your investment property portfolio.

How does depreciation affect CGT when selling an investment property?

Depreciation reduces an asset's cost base. When you sell, previously claimed Division 40 depreciation triggers a balancing adjustment. For Division 43 capital works deductions claimed from 1 July 2017, the amount reduces the building's cost base, increasing the eventual capital gain. The interaction between depreciation and CGT requires careful calculation at time of sale.

What does a quantity surveyor do for tax purposes?

A quantity surveyor prepares a tax depreciation schedule by physically inspecting the property and identifying all depreciable assets and their values. The ATO accepts these estimates for depreciation claims where original receipts are unavailable. The fee is tax deductible. A schedule maximises your annual depreciation claims based on a comprehensive site assessment.

What is the difference between Division 43 and Division 40 depreciation for property?

Division 43 covers the capital works deduction on structural components (walls, floors, roof) at 2.5% per year for buildings constructed after 15 September 1987. Division 40 covers plant and equipment (appliances, carpet, blinds) depreciated over their ATO-determined effective life. Post-May 2017 legislation restricts Division 40 claims on second-hand residential assets for new buyers.

Do depreciation rules differ between residential and commercial property?

Yes. The May 2017 restrictions on second-hand plant and equipment only apply to residential properties. Commercial property investors can still claim Division 40 depreciation on second-hand assets. Division 43 capital works deductions apply to both property types based on construction date, not acquisition date.

What records do I need for property depreciation claims?

Keep the purchase contract, settlement statement, receipts for capital improvements, and a quantity surveyor's depreciation schedule. The ATO can request these records for five years after the relevant income year. Without records, depreciation claims can be reduced or disallowed on audit, and you may lose the ability to substantiate cost base adjustments at sale.

How Much Does a House Valuation Cost in Australia?

Buying a house is one of the most significant financial decisions most people will make. Before taking that leap, it's crucial to understand the true value of the property you're considering. That's where a professional house valuation comes into play.

What You'll Learn

How Much Does a House Valuation Cost in Australia?
What is a House Valuation?
Average Cost of a House Valuation in Australia
Factors That Influence House Valuation Costs
How to Get the Best Value for a House Valuation

In Australia, getting an accurate property valuation is an essential step in the home buying or selling process. But how much does a house valuation cost? The answer can vary quite a bit depending on several factors. In this blog post, we'll dive into the typical costs associated with house valuations in Australia and help you understand what to expect.

What is a House Valuation?

A house valuation, also known as a property appraisal, is an assessment of a home's market value conducted by a qualified, independent professional. This assessment considers factors like the home's size, age, condition, location, and recent sales of comparable properties in the area.

A house valuation's main purpose is to determine a property's fair market value. This information is crucial for:

Home buyers - To ensure they are paying a reasonable price for the property
Home sellers - To price their home competitively and maximize their return
Mortgage lenders - To assess the value of the property being used as collateral for a loan
Property investors - To evaluate the potential return on an investment property

Having an accurate, up-to-date valuation is important throughout the home-buying and selling process. Lenders will require a professional valuation before approving a mortgage, and sellers need to price their homes appropriately to attract buyers.

Average Cost of a House Valuation in Australia

The cost of a house valuation in Australia can vary quite a bit but generally falls somewhere between $300 to $600. The exact price will depend on several key factors:

1. Location

House valuation costs are higher in major cities and metropolitan areas than in regional or rural locations. This is because property values are typically higher in urban centres, requiring more in-depth analysis by the valuer.

For example, a house valuation in Sydney or Melbourne may cost $400-$600, while a similar assessment in a smaller town could be closer to $300-$400.

2. Property Type

The type of property being valued can also impact the cost. Evaluating a standard single-family home is generally less complex than assessing a multi-unit apartment building or a luxury mansion.

Factors like a property's size, age, and unique features will determine how much time and effort the valuer needs to put into the assessment. More complex or high-end properties usually attract a higher valuation fee.

3. Purpose of the Valuation

The reason for needing the property valuation can also affect the cost. Mortgage valuations, for example, are typically less expensive than a detailed market appraisal for selling a home.

Mortgage lenders may only require a "drive-by" valuation, which involves a quick inspection of the exterior and a review of recent comparable sales. This type of valuation usually costs $300-$400.

In contrast, a comprehensive market appraisal for selling a home will involve a more thorough interior and exterior inspection and an in-depth analysis of the local real estate market. This type of detailed valuation often costs $400-$600.

4. Additional Services

Some valuation providers may offer additional services that can increase the overall cost, such as:

Digital floor plans
Detailed property reports
3D property scans
Advice on renovations or improvements

While these extra features can provide more value, they will add to the final price of the house valuation.

Factors That Influence House Valuation Costs

Beyond the basic cost range, several other factors can impact the final price of a house valuation in Australia:

Valuation Provider

The specific company or individual conducting the valuation can affect the price. Larger, more established valuation firms may charge higher rates than smaller, independent providers. However, the valuer's expertise and reputation are also important considerations.

Turnaround Time

If you need a quick turnaround on the valuation report, the provider may charge a rush or expedited service fee. Standard turnaround times are typically 5-10 business days but can be as fast as 1-2 days for an additional cost.

Additional Property Inspections

Some valuers may need to conduct more in-depth inspections or research, such as:

Surveying the land boundaries
Assessing the condition of the roof, plumbing, or electrical systems
Reviewing council records or zoning information

These extra steps can increase the overall valuation cost.

Travel Expenses

For properties located in remote or hard-to-access areas, the valuer may need to charge additional travel fees to cover the time and costs of getting to the site.

How to Get the Best Value for a House Valuation

With the wide range of house valuation costs in Australia, it's essential to do your research and find the right provider for your needs. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best value:

Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple valuation companies and compare their services, expertise, and pricing. Don't just go with the lowest bidder - look for a provider that offers quality work at a fair price.
Understand the Scope of Services: Make sure you know exactly what's included in the valuation and any additional fees for extra services. This will help you compare apples to apples when evaluating different providers.
Consider the Valuer's Qualifications: Look for a certified, experienced property valuer familiar with the local real estate market. Their expertise can be worth paying a slightly higher fee.
Time it Right: If your timeline is flexible, try to schedule the valuation during the provider's slower periods to get a better rate potentially. Avoid peak seasons like the end of the financial year.
Provide Accurate Property Details: Supplying the valuer with detailed information about your home upfront can help streamline the process and keep costs down. This includes the number of bedrooms/bathrooms, lot size, year built, and recent renovations.
Consider Package Deals: Some valuation companies offer discounted rates if you bundle their services, such as getting a pre-purchase and market appraisal. This can provide better value than purchasing each service individually.

By following these tips, you can find a qualified house valuation provider in Australia who delivers high-quality work at a fair and reasonable price.

Conclusion

Getting an accurate property valuation is a critical step in the home buying or selling process. While the cost of a house valuation in Australia can vary slightly, most fall within the $300 to $600 range.

The exact price you'll pay depends on factors like the location, property type, purpose of the valuation, and any additional services required. By understanding these cost drivers and shopping around, you can find a qualified valuation provider that offers the best value for your needs.

Investing in a professional house valuation is well worth ensuring you make an informed real estate decision, whether you're a buyer, seller, or investor. Take the time to find the right provider, and you'll have the peace of mind of knowing the property's true market value. If you want us to organise a house valuation with one of our specialists, please send your query about the house valuation when contacting us.

How do I get help with this from the ATO?

What records do I need to keep for tax purposes in Australia?

When do I need a registered tax agent in Australia?

How does the ATO calculate penalties for compliance failures?

What is the difference between tax avoidance and tax minimisation?

Mortgage stress affects Australian households when home loan repayments consume more than 30% of gross household income. In 2026, with interest rates having peaked at 4.35% in late 2023 and now easing, many households are still recovering from the rapid rate increases of 2022-2023. The ATO and financial counsellors have tools to help — and understanding your options can prevent a temporary financial hardship from becoming a permanent debt crisis.

Signs You Are in Mortgage Stress

Home loan repayments exceed 30% of gross household income
Relying on credit cards or personal loans to cover everyday expenses
Consistently having insufficient funds before the next pay day
Missing or deferring non-mortgage payments (utilities, insurance, rates)
Using super early (hardship release) to meet mortgage payments

Tax Strategies to Ease Mortgage Pressure

If you are a homeowner under financial pressure, the following tax strategies may improve your cash flow in 2026:

Review your PAYG withholding: If you have significant deductions (investment properties, high work expenses), apply for a PAYG withholding variation to reduce tax withheld from your salary — improving weekly take-home pay
Claim all eligible deductions: Ensure home office, car, professional expenses are fully claimed — even small deductions reduce your taxable income and final tax bill
Investment property offset: If your rental property is negatively geared, ensure your tax agent claims the full loss against your income to maximise your refund
Salary sacrifice into super: Not immediately helpful for cash flow, but reduces your taxable income and long-term retirement cost

Financial Hardship Options for Mortgage Holders in 2026

Hardship arrangement with your lender: All Australian banks are required under the National Credit Code to consider hardship applications. You can request interest-only payments, a repayment pause, or loan term extension.
Refinancing: Moving to a lower-rate lender can reduce repayments by $500-$1,000 per month on a $600,000 loan at 2026 rates. Use a mortgage broker to compare options without multiple hard credit enquiries.
ATO payment plans: If you have outstanding tax debt adding pressure, the ATO offers payment plans and may waive penalties for genuine hardship — contact them or have your tax agent negotiate.
National Debt Helpline: Free financial counselling available on 1800 007 007.

Early Super Access for Financial Hardship

Under severe financial hardship provisions, you can apply to access some of your superannuation early if you have been on government income support for 26 consecutive weeks and cannot meet basic living expenses. The amount is limited to $10,000 per 12-month period. This should be a last resort — withdrawing super permanently reduces your retirement savings and the compound growth on those funds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mortgage stress threshold in Australia?

Mortgage stress is commonly defined as spending more than 30% of gross household income on home loan repayments. At 2026 variable rates of approximately 6-7%, a household earning $120,000 would be under stress on any loan above approximately $500,000-$550,000.

Can I get a tax deduction on my home mortgage?

No. Interest on your primary residence home loan is not tax deductible in Australia — the property is not used to produce assessable income. Only interest on loans for investment purposes (rental property, shares, business) is deductible.

What should I do first if I am struggling with mortgage repayments?

Contact your lender before missing a payment — proactive borrowers get better outcomes than those who go into default. At the same time, call the National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007) for free financial counselling and speak to your accountant about whether any tax strategies can improve your cash position.

Under financial pressure and unsure of your options? Contact AWTS for advice on tax strategies, payment arrangements, and financial structuring.

First home buyers in Australia in 2026 have access to a range of federal and state government assistance schemes that can significantly reduce the upfront cost of purchasing a home. From stamp duty concessions to the federal First Home Guarantee, understanding which schemes you qualify for — and combining them effectively — can make the difference between purchasing now or waiting years to save more. Here is the complete 2026 guide to first home buyer assistance in Australia.

Federal First Home Guarantee (5% Deposit Scheme)

The First Home Guarantee (FHBG) allows eligible first home buyers to purchase a property with a deposit of as little as 5% without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). The government guarantees the remaining 15% deposit gap to the lender. In 2026, 35,000 places are available per financial year. Key requirements:

Income cap: $125,000 p.a. for singles, $200,000 for couples (combined)
Property price caps vary by state — in Sydney (NSW) the cap is $900,000; Melbourne/Victoria $800,000; Brisbane/Queensland $700,000
You must occupy the property as your principal place of residence
Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
Must not have previously owned a home in Australia

First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS)

The First Home Super Saver Scheme allows you to save for your first home inside your super fund — where earnings are taxed at just 15% instead of your marginal rate. In 2026, you can withdraw up to $50,000 in eligible contributions for a home deposit. Rules include:

Voluntary contributions (concessional or non-concessional) made after 1 July 2017 are eligible
Concessional contributions up to $15,000 per year (within the $30,000 annual cap) count toward the scheme
Maximum withdrawal: $50,000 per person, $100,000 for couples
You must apply for a FHSS determination from the ATO before signing a contract

State and Territory Grants and Stamp Duty Concessions in 2026

NSW: First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme — full stamp duty exemption on new and existing homes under $800,000; concessions up to $1 million
VIC: First Home Owner Grant of $10,000 for new homes (regional: $20,000); stamp duty exemption on new homes under $600,000
QLD: First Home Owner Grant of $30,000 on new homes up to $750,000 (announced 2024, extended 2026)
WA: First Home Owner Grant of $10,000; stamp duty concessions for homes under $600,000
SA: First Home Owner Grant of $15,000 for new builds
ACT: Home Buyer Concession Scheme — reduced stamp duty for eligible buyers

First Home Buyer Tax Considerations

Once you own your first home, it becomes your principal place of residence and is exempt from CGT while you live there. If you later rent out part of your home (e.g., a granny flat), the CGT exemption is partially reduced for the income-producing portion. Keep records of your purchase price and costs from day one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my super for a house deposit in Australia?

Yes — through the First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS) for voluntary contributions, or through limited access to the Downsizer Contribution if you are 55+ and selling an existing home. You cannot access your ordinary SG super contributions for a first home purchase.

Do first home buyers pay stamp duty in 2026?

It depends on the state and the purchase price. NSW provides a full stamp duty exemption for first home buyers on properties up to $800,000 and a concession up to $1 million. Other states have similar but different thresholds and conditions — check with your state revenue office for current figures.

What is the income limit for the First Home Guarantee in 2026?

$125,000 per year for singles and $200,000 combined for couples. Income is assessed on your previous financial year's taxable income plus reportable fringe benefits and reportable employer super contributions. If your income is above these limits, you are not eligible for the FHBG but may still access state-based schemes.

Buying your first home in 2026? Contact AWTS for advice on the FHSSS, stamp duty strategies, and structuring your purchase tax-effectively.