09 May 2025 How to Apply for the First Home Owner Grant Melbourne
Buying your first home in Melbourne is a major milestone. In a market where property prices remain high, the First Home Owner Grant provides crucial support for eligible buyers.
The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) is a one-off government payment for those purchasing or building a new home. In 2025, with rising costs and tighter budgets, it’s more relevant than ever.
If you’re buying in Melbourne, EverLend’s expert mortgage brokers can guide you through the process and help maximise your options. Our brokers understand which grants best align with your loan type and financial situation.
Whether you’re a first-home buyer, a single parent, or simply hoping to secure your own place in Victoria, this guide covers everything you need to know about the First Home Owner Grant. Let’s dive right in.
What Is the First Home Owner Grant Melbourne?
The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) is a one-off government payment designed to support eligible first-time home buyers who are purchasing or building a brand-new residential property. Its main purpose is to ease the financial burden of entering the property market by contributing toward your house deposit, building costs, or loan repayments.
In Victoria, the FHOG provides $10,000 to eligible applicants buying or building a new home valued up to $750,000. This applies to plan purchases, vacant land builds, and completely brand-new properties, not established homes or investment properties.
Compared to other states, Victoria:
- Offers the same grant amount ($10,000) for both metro and regional areas, while some states offer more in regional zones
- Enforces a 12-month residency requirement post-settlement or construction completion
- Has a property value cap that differs from states like NSW or QLD, which often have higher or tiered thresholds
Every state has its own eligibility rules, application process, and grant structure, so it’s important to understand how Victoria’s version fits your plans.
How Much Is the First Home Owner Grant in Melbourne?
In 2025, the First Home Owner Grant in Melbourne remains set at $10,000. The same amount applies whether you’re buying in metropolitan Melbourne or regional Victoria. There’s no additional bonus for regional purchases, unlike some other states.
Recent Changes for 2025
There haven’t been any increases to the grant amount in 2025. However, the application process has become more streamlined, with better access to digital submission tools and faster response times through approved lenders.
Common Misconceptions
- The grant amount is not based on your deposit size. It’s a fixed one-off payment, not a percentage.
- Many assume it’s available for any home purchase. It’s strictly for brand-new residential properties, not established homes.
- Some think you get more in regional areas, not in Victoria.
Make sure to confirm your property type, contract price, and applicant status before assuming eligibility.
Who Is Eligible for the First Home Owner Grant in Melbourne?
Not everyone buying their first home qualifies; there are clear rules about who can apply. If you’re planning to live in the home and it’s your first time buying, here’s what you need to know.
To be eligible, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be an Australian citizen or hold a permanent visa or special category visa (subclass 444).
- Have never owned a residential property in Australia, including any share in a co-owned home.
- Be buying or building a brand-new property (not previously lived in or sold).
- Intend to live in the home as your principal place of residence for at least 12 continuous months starting within 12 months of settlement or construction completion.
- Apply as an individual or joint applicant. All applicants must meet the same eligibility rules.
Property Requirements:
- The contract price or construction value must be $750,000 or less.
- The property must be a new build, an off-the-plan purchase, a house and land package, or a build on vacant land.
- Investment properties, holiday homes, and established homes are not eligible.
These eligibility criteria are set by the Victorian Government and assessed at the time of your application form submission. Always double-check current requirements before you buy or build.
What Types of Properties Qualify?
Not all properties make the cut for the FHOG. The grant only applies to homes that are genuinely brand-new.
Eligible properties include:
- Newly built homes that have never been sold or lived in
- Off-the-plan purchases (apartments or townhouses bought before completion)
- House and land packages
- Vacant land with a comprehensive building contract where construction starts within 12 months of the contract date
Important:
- The property must be your primary residence, not an investment or holiday house.
- Established homes or properties used as short-term rentals (like Airbnb) don’t qualify.
- The build must reach completion of construction in line with FHOG application timing rules.
Always check the contract of sale and builder’s terms to ensure your home fits the eligible property types.
Need help figuring out if your property qualifies for the grant? Chat here with a trusted Melbourne mortgage broker at EverLend today. Call 03 7036 3356 for expert guidance and personalised support.
How to Apply for the First Home Owner Grant in Melbourne
Applying for the First Home Owner Grant in Melbourne isn’t complicated, but getting it right from the start matters. A mortgage broker can walk you through the details and help avoid costly delays.
Step 1: Speak to a Mortgage Broker
Start by getting pre-approval and confirming you meet the eligibility criteria. A broker will check your financial position, property type, and suggest buyer grants that match your loan type.
Step 2: Sign the Contract of Sale
You must have a signed contract of sale before applying. This applies whether you’re buying a brand-new build, an off-the-plan property, or a land and build package.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
You’ll need documents like proof of identity, bank statements, your contract of sale, and a statutory declaration. Your broker or lender can help ensure these are accurate and complete.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
You can apply through an approved lender (like your bank, credit union, or mortgage broker) or directly via the State Revenue Office. Applying through a broker can speed up the process and reduce the risk of rejection.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
Grant approval usually takes 1–4 weeks, depending on how you apply and whether all documents are correct. Make sure your application form meets the required eligibility rules.
Step 6: Grant Payment and Next Steps
Once approved, the grant is paid at settlement or at the first construction progress payment, depending on your property type. Your broker or lender will coordinate with the financial institution to apply the grant to your loan or deposit.
When Do You Receive the First Home Owner Grant Payment?
The FHOG is paid out at different stages, depending on the type of purchase.
Payment Timelines:
- Buying a brand-new home: Paid at the time of settlement.
- Building on vacant land: Paid when the first progress payment is made to the builder.
- Off-the-plan purchases: Paid at settlement once the property title is transferred.
What Affects the Timing?
Delays can occur if:
- You submit incomplete documents
- The contract of sale has errors
- Your application misses the timing window
- Your lender takes longer to process
How Is the Grant Paid?
The grant is usually applied directly at settlement, often as a credit toward your deposit or loan. If you apply through your mortgage broker or lender, they’ll manage the grant payment coordination with your financial institution.
Chat with Melbourne Mortgage Brokers at EverLend
Don’t miss out on thousands in government support, and speak with a Melbourne mortgage broker at EverLend today! Call 03 7036 3356 for expert help with your First Home Owner Grant application.
Our brokers understand the fine print and can make sure your property, documents, and timing all meet the exact FHOG requirements. It’s your first home; let’s make sure you start strong!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What grants are available for first home buyers in Victoria?
Eligible first-home buyers in Victoria can access the First Home Owner Grant, stamp duty concessions, and the First Home Guarantee, a national scheme supported by the Federal Government. These additional grants can reduce upfront costs and make it easier for first-time buyers to purchase their perfect property.
What is the income limit for the First Home Owner Grant in Victoria?
There is no income limit for the First Home Owner Grant in Victoria, but you must meet all other eligibility requirements. Factors like purchase price, property type, and continuous period of occupancy play a more significant role in determining eligibility.
How much do you get with the first home buyers grant Australia?
In Victoria, eligible home buyers receive a one-off grant of $10,000 for purchasing or building a brand-new property valued at $750,000 or less. The grant is typically applied at the time of settlement or during the first progress payment in a construction loan.
What is the $50k First Home Owner Grant?
The $50k First Home Owner Grant refers to limited-time or regional buyer concessions offered in certain states, but Victoria does not currently offer this amount. Instead, Victoria supports eligible first-home buyers with a $10,000 one-off grant and other additional grants like stamp duty exemption.
What is the 25% first home buyer scheme in Victoria?
This refers to the Victorian Homebuyer Fund, where the state contributes up to 25% of the purchase price for eligible home buyers under a shared equity model. It’s part of a national scheme that works alongside lenders mortgage insurance waivers and other buyer schemes.
What is the first home owner concession in Victoria?
The first home owner concession usually refers to a stamp duty concession or stamp duty exemption for eligible first-home buyers purchasing properties under specific thresholds. Your type of loan, application timing, and whether you’re living in the home for a continuous period can all impact eligibility.
Final Thoughts
Buying your first home in 2025 is a big moment, and knowing what support you’re entitled to can make all the difference.
The First Home Owner Grant in Melbourne is just one of many buyer concessions that can help ease the pressure, especially when paired with stamp duty exemptions, national schemes, and smart loan choices.
If you’re not sure where to start or just want someone to walk you through it, our team of Melbourne mortgage brokers, based in St Kilda, is here to help. Book a free consultation with EverLend today. We’ll answer your questions, check your eligibility, and help you make a confident move toward the perfect property.
Call us on 03 7036 3356 or visit www.everlend.com.au to get started.