This article was last updated in October 2025 and all information is accurate as of this time.
Buying your first home is one of life’s biggest milestones but for many Queenslanders, it can feel out of reach. Between rising property prices, stamp duty, and the challenge of saving a deposit, it’s easy to see why the process can be overwhelming.
That’s where the QLD First Home Buyers Grant comes in. This government initiative helps eligible first home buyers bridge the gap between saving and owning, making it easier to purchase or build a brand-new home sooner.
Whether you’re buying in Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, Townsville or regional Queensland, understanding the grant rules and how they fit into your overall loan strategy is key. That’s where a QPF Finance broker can help. Our team works with first home buyers every day to secure finance, apply for grants, and guide you from pre-approval through to settlement.
What Is the First Home Buyers Grant (QLD)?
The Queensland First Home Buyers Grant, often called the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG), is a one-off government payment designed to help first-time buyers purchase or build a new home, townhouse, or apartment.
As of July 2025, the Queensland Government has doubled the grant to $30,000 for eligible applicants. It’s available for newly built homes, off-the-plan properties, and substantial renovations valued at up to $750,000.
The grant aims to make entering the property market easier, particularly for young families and first-time buyers building in growth corridors or regional areas.
Example:
If you’re building a new home worth $700,000, the $30,000 grant could be used toward your deposit or construction costs reducing the amount you need to borrow.
You can read the full eligibility details on the Queensland Revenue Office website, but below we’ll break down what you need to know in simple terms.
Who Is Eligible for the QLD First Home Buyers Grant?
To qualify for the Queensland First Home Buyers Grant, you’ll need to meet certain personal, property, and occupancy requirements.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Personal Eligibility
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident (or applying jointly with one).
- You must not have previously owned property in Australia.
Property Requirements
- The home must be brand new, off-the-plan, or substantially renovated.
- The total value of the home and land must be $750,000 or less.
- It must be located in Queensland.
Occupancy Requirements
- You must move into the home within 12 months of completion or settlement.
- You must live there continuously for at least 6 months as your main residence.
This grant is designed to help first home buyers entering the market, not investors. That means the property can’t be rented out during your required occupancy period.
Tip: Even if you’ve previously owned vacant land or an investment property, you may still be eligible in certain cases. Your broker or lender can help confirm your status before applying.
Property Value Caps and Grant Amounts in Queensland
As of July 2025, eligible first home buyers in Queensland can receive $30,000 toward the purchase or construction of a new home.
This increased grant amount is designed to help more Queenslanders get into the property market sooner — whether that’s a townhouse in Brisbane, a house-and-land package in Toowoomba, or a new build along the Sunshine Coast.
To qualify, the property you’re buying or building must have a total value of $750,000 or less.
This figure includes both the land and the completed home, so if you’re purchasing a house-and-land package or building with a registered builder, make sure the combined contract price doesn’t exceed that threshold.
The grant applies to:
- Brand-new houses, townhouses or units that have never been lived in
- Off-the-plan properties still under construction
- Owner-builder projects once construction is complete
- Substantially renovated homes that meet the state’s definition of “new”
However, it doesn’t apply to established properties or investment purchases. It’s purely designed to support owner-occupiers entering the market for the first time.
Example:
If you buy a new townhouse in Brisbane for $720,000, you could receive the full $30,000 grant, reducing the amount you need to borrow or helping cover your upfront purchase costs.
How to Apply for the First Home Buyers Grant in Queensland
Applying for the Queensland First Home Buyers Grant is a straightforward process, but it’s important to get the details right to avoid delays.
Here’s how it works step by step:
- Check You’re Eligible
Before starting your application, make sure you meet all the criteria:
- You’re over 18 and an Australian citizen or permanent resident
- You haven’t previously owned property in Australia
- The home is brand new or off-the-plan, valued at $750,000 or less
- You’ll move in within 12 months and live there for at least 6 months
You can confirm full eligibility on the Queensland Revenue Office website.
- Apply Through Your Lender or Broker
Most buyers apply for the grant through their lender or mortgage broker when submitting their home loan application. This is the fastest way to have the grant processed, as the lender can lodge your paperwork directly with the Queensland Revenue Office (QRO).
Tip: When you apply through a QPF broker, we’ll manage your grant paperwork alongside your loan — so you don’t need to handle separate forms or follow-ups.
- Gather the Right Documents
Generally, you’ll need to provide:
- Proof of identity (passport, driver’s licence, or birth certificate)
- Copy of your signed building or purchase contract
- Proof of land ownership (if applicable)
- Evidence of completion or occupancy if you’ve already moved in
- Submit and Wait for Assessment
Once submitted, applications are typically processed within 10 to 14 business days.
If you’re building a new home, the grant is usually paid once construction reaches the payment milestone or final stage.
If you’re buying an off-the-plan or completed property, the grant is often applied at settlement, helping to reduce upfront costs.
- Keep Your Proof
It’s important to keep copies of all correspondence and grant approval letters. You may need them for future reference or if the Queensland Revenue Office requests verification later on.
Other Government Schemes for First Home Buyers in Queensland
In addition to the Queensland First Home Buyers Grant, there are a few national programs that can help boost your deposit or reduce upfront costs:
- Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS) – Allows eligible first-time buyers to purchase a home with as little as a 5% deposit without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). Places are limited each financial year.
- First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS) – Lets you save money for your first home inside your super, taking advantage of the tax benefits of superannuation.
- Help to Buy (Coming Soon) – A shared-equity program that will see the Australian Government co-invest in the purchase price of eligible homes, helping reduce the loan amount required.
Tip: A mortgage broker can help check if you’re eligible for multiple schemes and combine them with the QLD First Home Buyers Grant to maximise your savings.
Why Use a Mortgage Broker
Buying your first home can be exciting but also a little overwhelming. Between saving a deposit, comparing lenders, and navigating the fine print of grants and government schemes, it’s easy to feel unsure where to start.
That’s where a mortgage broker can make all the difference.
At QPF Finance our mortgage brokers specialise in helping first home buyers across Queensland access the right finance, grants, and support all in one place. We’ll:
- Compare 50+ lenders to find the best rate and loan structure for your situation
- Handle your First Home Buyers Grant paperwork alongside your loan application
- Check your eligibility for other programs like the Home Guarantee Scheme and First Home Super Saver Scheme
- Guide you from pre-approval through to settlement so you can focus on finding your dream home
- And our Insurance brokers can even sort out your Home & Content’s Insurance!*
Your first home journey doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right broker by your side, you can take advantage of every opportunity available and step into your new home with confidence.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is general in nature and is presented for informative purposes. It is not intended to constitute financial or insurance advice, whether general or personal nor is it intended to imply any recommendation or opinion about a financial or insurance product. It does not take into consideration your personal situation and may not be relevant to circumstances. Before taking any action, consider your own particular circumstances and seek professional advice. This content is protected by copyright laws and various other intellectual property laws. It is not to be modified, reproduced or republished without prior written consent.
*Costs may apply. Contact a QPF insurance broker for more details
