For many Australians, the dream of owning a home can feel distant due to the challenge of saving for a deposit. Fortunately, in 2025, various government grants and schemes make it possible to buy a home with little or no deposit. Combined, these grants and support programs can provide up to $70,000 in financial assistance, making homeownership more accessible for first-time buyers.
1. First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS)
The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme is one of the most beneficial options for first-time homebuyers. It allows buyers to purchase a home with just a 5% deposit, with the government acting as a guarantor for the remaining 15%. This effectively eliminates the need for Lender’s Mortgage Insurance (LMI), which is usually required when your deposit is less than 20%.
- Eligibility: Buyers must meet income and property price caps, which vary depending on the location.
- Amount: The scheme helps you avoid LMI and requires only a 5% deposit, saving you thousands of dollars in upfront costs.
2. First Home Owner Grant (FHOG)
The First Home Owner Grant is available to eligible first-time buyers who are purchasing a newly built home. This grant is offered by state and territory governments to help with the cost of buying a new property.
- Eligibility: You must be a first-time homebuyer, meet residency requirements, and purchase a newly built home or a substantially renovated property.
- Amount: The grant varies by state, typically offering between $10,000 to $20,000, depending on where you’re purchasing.
3. First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS)
The First Home Super Saver Scheme allows first-time buyers to save for their home deposit within their superannuation fund. Contributions made to the super fund are taxed at a lower rate, which accelerates the growth of your savings.
- Eligibility: You must be a first-time homebuyer and meet specific conditions to access the funds.
- Amount: You can withdraw up to $30,000 from your superannuation to put towards your home deposit, giving you a significant boost in your savings.
4. Stamp Duty Exemption/Concession
Stamp duty is one of the most significant upfront costs when purchasing a property. However, first-time buyers may qualify for stamp duty exemptions or concessions in many states and territories.
- Eligibility: Typically available for properties under a certain price limit. The specific threshold varies by state and location.
- Amount: First-time buyers may receive full or partial relief on stamp duty, which can save you thousands of dollars, depending on your state.
5. Regional First Home Buyer Grant
For those purchasing in regional areas, there is a Regional First Home Buyer Grant. This grant provides extra assistance to buyers purchasing homes outside of major metropolitan areas.
- Eligibility: You must be a first-time buyer and purchase a property in a designated regional area.
- Amount: The grant typically offers an additional $10,000, which can be added on top of the FHOG, bringing your total grant assistance closer to $70,000.
6. Shared Equity Schemes
Some states offer shared equity schemes, where the government or a partner investor contributes a portion of the property’s purchase price in exchange for partial ownership of the home. This reduces the amount you need to borrow, helping to make homeownership more affordable.
- Eligibility: These schemes are usually available for low-to-moderate income earners and often have caps on property prices.
- Amount: The government or investor covers a percentage of the property price, which can significantly reduce the amount you need for a deposit.
7. Family Guarantee or Guarantor Loan
If you have a family member with significant property equity, they may act as a guarantor for your home loan. This allows you to borrow 100% of the property’s value without needing a deposit, while your family member’s property secures the loan.
- Eligibility: You must have a family member willing to act as a guarantor.
- Amount: You avoid the need for a deposit, which can save you from having to save thousands upfront.
Conclusion
In 2025, Australia offers a range of grants and schemes that can provide up to $70,000 or more in financial support to help first-time buyers purchase a home with little or no deposit. Whether through government-backed schemes like the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme, the First Home Owner Grant, or shared equity programs, there are numerous opportunities for those who want to enter the property market. By exploring these options, you can significantly reduce the financial barriers to homeownership and start your journey to owning a home sooner.