NSW First Home Owner Grant (2026): Everything First Home Buyers Need to Know

The good news is that if you're building or buying a brand-new home in NSW, you may be eligible for the $10,000 First Home Owner Grant (FHOG). This government incentive is designed to help more Australians get into their first home while encouraging the construction of new housing.

What is the First Home Owner Grant?

The NSW First Home Owner Grant provides eligible first home buyers with $10,000 towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

Unlike some other government incentives, this grant is only available for new homes. Existing homes generally don't qualify.

Eligible properties can include:

• Newly built houses
• Townhouses
• Apartments
• Units
• Off-the-plan purchases
• Some substantially renovated homes that meet the government's requirements
  
  

The grant can often be used alongside other first home buyer assistance programs, making it easier to get into your first home sooner.

Who can apply?

To be eligible, you'll generally need to:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be buying or building your first home in Australia.
• Be purchasing as an individual rather than through a company or trust.
• Have at least one applicant who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
• Meet the government residency requirements by living in the home as your principal place of residence.
  
  

Eligibility rules can vary depending on your circumstances, so it's always worth confirming your eligibility before signing a contract.

Property price limits

The grant is available within specific property value caps.

Buying a new home

If you're purchasing a newly built home, the purchase price must not exceed $600,000.

Building your own home

If you're buying land and building, the combined value of:

• the land,
• your building contract, and
• eligible contract variations

must not exceed $750,000.

Can I receive the grant when building with Domaine Homes?

In many cases, yes.

If you're building your first home with Domaine Homes and your land and build costs fall within the government price limits, you may be eligible for the First Home Owner Grant.

Our team regularly works with first home buyers and can help point you in the right direction by connecting you with trusted finance specialists who understand the available government assistance.

Do I have to live in the home?

Yes.

The First Home Owner Grant is intended to help people purchase a home to live in, not purely as an investment.

Current rules generally require eligible buyers to move into the property within 12 months of completion or settlement and live there continuously for at least 12 months. If these requirements aren't met, you may need to repay the grant.

Can I combine the grant with other first home buyer schemes?

Potentially.

Many first home buyers are able to combine the First Home Owner Grant with other government initiatives, depending on their eligibility.

These may include:

• First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme (stamp duty relief)
• Australian Government Home Guarantee Scheme
• Other state or federal initiatives available at the time of purchase

Combining multiple schemes can significantly reduce the upfront costs of buying your first home.

How do you apply?

Most buyers apply for the grant while arranging their home loan through their lender or mortgage broker.

If you've already completed your purchase or build, you may also be able to lodge an application directly with Revenue NSW within the required timeframe.

You'll typically need documents that confirm your identity, property purchase and eligibility.

Speak with our Construction Loan Specialists

Start Your First Home Journey with Domaine Homes

Building your first home doesn't have to be complicated.

At Domaine Homes, we've helped thousands of first home buyers across NSW understand their options, navigate government incentives and find a home design that suits their budget and lifestyle.

Whether you're just starting your research or you're ready to build, our experienced team can help you understand which grants and schemes you may be eligible for.

 Book a free consultation today and take the first step towards owning your new home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get the grant if I'm buying an existing home?

No. The First Home Owner Grant is only available for eligible new or substantially renovated homes.

Is the $10,000 grant taxable?

No. The grant is not taxable and isn't based on your income.

Do both buyers receive $10,000 each?

No. The grant is paid once per eligible property purchase, not once per applicant.

Can I still qualify if I've owned property overseas?

In some situations, yes. Previous ownership of property outside Australia doesn't automatically prevent you from qualifying, but it's important to check the detailed eligibility requirements for your circumstances.