What is Stamp Duty in Australia?
Stamp duty is a state and territory tax paid when you buy property in Australia. Each jurisdiction sets its own rates, thresholds, and exemptions, so the amount you pay depends on where the property is located and your buyer status. This article provides a clear overview of the stamp duty landscape across Australia in 2026.
How Stamp Duty is Calculated
Stamp duty is generally calculated on the property’s purchase price or its dutiable value, with rates that increase as the price rises. Most states use a sliding scale, meaning the percentage you pay varies by price bracket. Some jurisdictions also apply surcharges for foreign buyers, while others offer concessions for first-time buyers on lower-priced homes.
State-by-State Stamp Duty Rates in 2026
While specific rates and thresholds were not detailed in our source, the following general principles apply across Australia:
- New South Wales – Applies a progressive rate based on the property value, with exemptions or concessions for eligible first-home buyers and a surcharge for foreign purchasers.
- Victoria – Uses a tiered rate structure, with a first-home buyer duty exemption or reduction for homes under certain thresholds, and a foreign purchaser additional duty.
- Queensland – Offers a transfer duty with a scale of rates, plus concessions for first-home buyers and an additional foreign acquirer duty.
- Western Australia – Has a progressive duty rate, with a first-home buyer duty assistance scheme and a foreign buyer surcharge.
- South Australia – Applies a rate that increases with property value, with a first-home buyer concession and a foreign ownership surcharge.
- Tasmania – Uses a progressive duty scale, with a first-home buyer duty concession and a foreign investor duty surcharge.
- Australian Capital Territory – Instead of stamp duty, the ACT charges a general rates system gradually replacing duty, though it still applies to some transfers.
- Northern Territory – Applies stamp duty on property transfers, with concessions for first-home buyers and a foreign owner surcharge.
Note: The exact rates, thresholds, and conditions change over time and vary between states. Always check with the relevant revenue office for the most current information.
First-Home Buyer Concessions
Most Australian states offer some form of stamp duty relief for first-home buyers. These schemes typically apply to individuals purchasing their first property, usually a principal place of residence, and often have price caps and eligibility conditions such as income limits. Concessions can include full exemptions, reduced rates, or refunds, depending on the state and the property value.
Foreign Buyer Surcharges
Foreign buyers generally face additional stamp duty surcharges in Australia. These surcharges are applied on top of the standard duty and vary by state, with percentages differing and sometimes increasing over time. Foreign buyers may also be subject to stricter eligibility rules and additional application requirements.
FAQ
How do I calculate stamp duty for my property?
Generally, you apply the relevant state’s rate to the higher of the purchase price or the property’s dutiable value. Most revenue offices provide online calculators.
Are there stamp duty exemptions for first-time buyers?
Yes, every state and territory offers some form of first-home buyer concession, though the conditions and thresholds differ. Check with your local revenue office for eligibility.
Do foreign buyers pay extra stamp duty?
Yes, most states impose an additional foreign buyer surcharge, which is added to the standard duty rate.
Do stamp duty rates change?
Yes, states periodically adjust rates, thresholds, and concessions. Always verify the current figures from the relevant government authority.