How to calculate stamp duty

What is stamp duty?

Stamp duty is a tax charged by state or territory governments on large purchases, such as property. It is also often referred to as transfer duty. The amount of stamp duty charged varies depending on the state or territory and the value of the purchase.

How much is stamp duty?

The amount of stamp duty you will need to pay varies depending on the value of the property, where you are buying, whether it is your first home and if you plan on living there. It is important you understand how much stamp duty you will need to pay to ensure you can budget correctly. This stamp duty calculator can help you calculate the amount you will likely pay in stamp duty for NSW, QLD, Vic, Tas, SA, WA, ACT and NT.

Is stamp duty different for first-home buyers?

Eligible first-home buyers may get a concession on stamp duty, depending on the state or territory. Many offer concessions on property worth up to a certain amount. Speak to your local broker to find out if you’re eligible. 

Stamp duty exemptions and concessions by state/territory: 

Stamp duty exemptions and concessions vary by state or territory. While every effort is made to keep this information up-to-date, speak to your local Loan Market broker to find out more.

Stamp duty exemptions in QLD

In Queensland, first-home buyers may receive a concession on stamp duty when buying a home or land. 

New home or vacant land – First-home buyers who signed a contract for a new build on or after 1 May 2025 could claim a full concession, meaning they don’t pay any stamp duty.

Established home – First-home buyers may be able to claim a concession on stamp duty on established homes valued under $800,000. Properties worth under $700,000 may have a full exemption for eligible buyers, meaning no stamp duty payable.

Home concession – Individuals purchasing property they intend to live in could receive a concession of up to $7,175

Stamp duty exemptions in NSW

The New South Wales Government offers the First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme. This provides a concession for eligible first-home buyers purchasing a home to live in valued less than $1 million.

Stamp duty exemptions in VIC

In Victoria, people purchasing a home to live in worth under $550,000 could be eligible for a concession on stamp duty. For first-home buyers, the value can be up to $600,000 and a discount is applied on properties between $600,001 and $750,000.

Stamp duty exemptions in SA

Eligible first-home buyers may receive a concession on stamp duty for a new build, off-the-plan apartment or vacant land to build a home on.

Stamp duty exemptions in WA

Eligible first-home buyers may receive a concession when purchasing a home to live in valued up to $700,000 in the Perth Metropolitan and Peel regions, or $750,000 for properties outside these regions. No duty is payable on properties valued up to $500,000. Vacant land may have concessions applied if the value of the land does not exceed $450,000. Land valued up to $350,000 may be exempt from duty.

Stamp duty exemptions in TAS

Eligible first-home buyers may not have to pay any stamp duty on existing properties worth up to $750,000. A 50% concession may be applied to off-the-plan units valued up to $750,000. 

Stamp duty exemptions in NT

The Northern Territory Government offers concessions to buyers of eligible house and land packages.

Stamp duty exemptions in ACT

Exemptions apply to eligible off-the-plan unit purchases valued up to $1,020,000, meaning no stamp duty is required.

First-home buyers, or people who haven’t owned in the last five years, may be eligible for an exemption on stamp duty on properties they intend to live in valued under $1,020,000.

FAQ:

Do you need to pay stamp duty on your second property?

Yes, you generally need to pay stamp duty on property purchases beyond your first home. There may be exemptions in some states for eligible off-the-plan units.

Is stamp duty different for investment properties?

Some states or territories charge a different amount of stamp duty for investment properties than homes to live in. There are no current exemptions or concessions for investment properties.

What other fees do you typically pay when buying a house?

Some other fees that may apply when buying a house include a mortgage registration fee and transfer fee. You can calculate these using our stamp duty calculator.

You can also expect to pay solicitor or conveyancer fees and a building and pest inspector.

Your mortgage broker can explain your home loan when you will commence making repayments. There may on occasions be an application fee for your home loan, which will be discussed before you apply.

Can stamp duty be paid in installments?

Generally stamp duty is paid in a lump sum by the time the transfer is settled, often within 30 days of the contract being entered into. It is not usually accepted in installments.