Last updated: July 2026
Stamp Duty Calculator ACT - First Home Buyer 2026
The ACT uses the Home Buyer Concession Scheme (HBCS) instead of a traditional FHOG. From 1 July 2026, the ACT Government removed both the property price cap and the income test that previously applied — eligible first home buyers now pay zero conveyance duty at any purchase price, with no income limit, making it the most generous first home buyer duty concession in Australia. The ACT calls its stamp duty conveyance duty, and uses progressive brackets similar to other jurisdictions for buyers who don't qualify.
ACT Home Buyer Concession Scheme (HBCS)
- Full exemption: all property types, at any price — the property value cap was removed from 1 July 2026
- No income test — the income threshold was also removed from 1 July 2026
- Replaces the traditional FHOG (ACT has no FHOG)
- Must not have owned property (you or your partner) in the previous 5 years
- Must live in the property as your principal residence for at least 1 year, starting within 1 year of settlement
ACT Standard Stamp Duty Rates
ACT uses 6 progressive brackets ranging from 0.28% on the first $260,000 up to 6.4% for properties between $1,000,001 and $1,455,000, then a flat 4.54% on the full value above $1,455,000.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the ACT have a First Home Owner Grant?
No. The ACT replaced the FHOG with the Home Buyer Concession Scheme (HBCS), which provides stamp duty relief instead of a cash grant.
What is the HBCS exemption threshold?
From 1 July 2026, there is no threshold at all. The ACT Government removed the property price cap, so eligible first home buyers pay $0 conveyance duty regardless of purchase price.
Does the HBCS apply to established homes in the ACT?
Yes. The HBCS applies to all property types in the ACT, including established homes, new builds, and vacant land, at any price.
How much is stamp duty on a $900,000 unit in Canberra?
For a first home buyer, stamp duty on a $900,000 property is $0 (fully exempt under HBCS — there's no cap or income test). For other buyers, standard duty is approximately $28,058.
Source: ACT Revenue Office
Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Calculations are estimates only and may not reflect your exact circumstances. Eligibility criteria and dollar amounts may change without notice. Always verify with the relevant government authority, your mortgage broker, or a licensed financial adviser before making decisions.