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The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) is a one-off payment provided by the South Australian Government to assist first-time buyers when purchasing or building a new home. It is designed to help new buyers by reducing some of the upfront costs involved in becoming a homeowner. It is designed to help new buyers enter the property market by reducing some of the upfront costs involved. (FHOG) is designed to make that journey a little easier. This government grant offers a one‑off payment of up to $15,000 to eligible first‑time buyers who are purchasing or building a new residential property.
If you are preparing to buy or build your first home, here is a clear breakdown of how the grant works, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Eligible Properties
To receive the FHOG, the property must be residential and new, which means:
- The purchase or construction of a new home.
- An off-the-plan apartment.
- A substantially renovated home.
- A comprehensive building contract or a contract to build a home.
- Owner builders.
- Knock-down rebuild projects (for contracts entered into prior to 13 February 2025)
The grant does not apply if you’re
- The purchase of an established home.
- The purchase or construction of an investment property or holiday home.
- The purchase or construction of a property that is above the property value cap (for contracts entered into before 6 June 2024)
- The purchase of vacant land.
- The purchase or construction of movable dwellings such as tents, caravans or any other portable devices used for habitation.
- The purchase or construction of non-habitable structures such as sheds, garages, or barns.
Eligible Properties
To qualify for the First Home Owner Grant, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a natural person (not a company or trust)
- Include details of a spouse or domestic partner, even if they are not an applicant.
At least one applicant must be:
- An Australian citizen, or
- A permanent resident, or
- A New Zealand citizen living in Australia with a Special Category visa
Your spouse or partner’s property ownership history may affect your eligibility, so their information must be included
Property Ownership Rules
If the contract was signed on or after 13 February 2025:
- You and your spouse/partner must not have owned a residential property in Australia before.
If the contract was signed before 13 February 2025:
- You may still qualify if you owned a residential property after 1 July 2000 but did not live in it for 6 months or more.
- If you owned a residential property purchased before 1 July 2000, you are not eligible.
Residence Requirement
Once your new home is complete or settled, you must:
- Live in it as your main place of residence.
- For a continuous period of at least 6 months.
- Within 12 months of settlement or completion.
If you cannot meet this requirement due to a change in circumstances, you must notify Revenue SA in writing within 14 days.
Grant Amount
The First Home Owner Grant provides:
- Up to $15,000.
- Paid once per eligible transaction.
The payment timing can vary depending on whether your application is lodged through a lender or directly with Revenue SA.
How to Apply
You can apply in two ways:
✔ Through an approved bank or lender – most common and required if you need the grant paid at settlement or for building progress payments.
✔ Directly with RevenueSA – if your lender is not an approved agent.
Applications must be lodged within 12 months of:
- Settlement (if you are buying), or
- Completion of construction (if you are building)
You will need to provide supporting documents for yourself and your spouse/partner.
Legislation
The grant is managed under:
- First Home and Housing Construction Grants Act 2000
- First Home and Housing Construction Grants Regulations 2015
At Lexmo Homes, we understand that building a new home is a major decision, especially if it’s your first. Our team can assist with information about the First Home Owner Grant and provide guidance during the design and building process. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or planning your next home, we’re here to offer expert advice, quality construction and reliable service. Contact us and book a free consultation today.