ACT
At a glance: From 1 July 2026, eligible first-home buyers in the ACT can receive a full conveyance-duty exemption under the expanded Home Buyer Concession Scheme (HBCS). The 2026–27 ACT Budget removed the former price barrier for first-home buyers.
What is available now
For eligible transactions from 1 July 2026:
- first-home buyers can pay $0 conveyance duty
- the ACT also expanded duty relief for eligible off-the-plan / newly unit-titled owner-occupier purchases
- there is no current ACT First Home Owner Grant cash payment
New vs established vs vacant land
The Home Buyer Concession Scheme can apply to eligible homes and vacant residential land, subject to the current scheme conditions and residence requirements. It is not limited to new builds the way some other states’ grants are.
Worked example
Eligible first-home buyer purchases an established ACT home for $850,000 after 1 July 2026.
| Purchase price | $850,000 |
| Indicative ACT conveyance duty under HBCS | $0* |
*If all eligibility conditions are met. The buyer still budgets for legal, inspections, registration, settlement adjustments and lender-related costs: see the Funds Position calculator.
How this can work with federal support
The ACT’s duty exemption stacks with federal programs where you separately qualify: the 5% Deposit Scheme, FHSS and Help to Buy may all be relevant depending on your circumstances.
What to confirm before signing
- that your specific purchase meets current HBCS eligibility conditions and any residence requirements
- whether off-the-plan/newly unit-titled relief applies if that is your purchase type
- that you are not relying on an ACT FHOG cash payment, as none currently exists
Official government source
Rules, thresholds and application processes can change. Check the official source before relying on a benefit or signing a contract.
Reviewed: 29 August 2026.
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kartik@policymatchhomeloans.com.au
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