Previous programs

Previous home buying assistance programs that are no longer accepting new applications.

The first home buyers assistance programs below have closed to new applicants. Retrospective applications from eligible purchasers can still be submitted.

Professionals seeking information on previous programs not listed below should visit Revenue NSW.

On this page

Shared Equity Home Buyer Helper

Under the Shared Equity program, the NSW Government contributed up to 40% of the purchase price for a home. This helped eligible participants secure a mortgage by potentially reducing the deposit to as low as 2% of the purchase price.

The Shared Equity pilot closed on 30 June 2024.

First Home Buyer Choice

First Home Buyer Choice provided eligible first home buyers with the option to choose to pay an annual property tax instead of transfer duty. Eligible first home buyers who exchanged contracts on or before 30 June 2023 will have until settlement to opt in to FHBC. Those who previously opted in to FHBC will continue to pay property tax for as long as they own the property they purchased under the scheme.

HomeBuilder

HomeBuilder was an Australian Government program which provided eligible owner-occupiers (including first home buyers) with a grant to build a new home, substantially renovate an existing home or buy an off the plan home/new home.

The program operated under a partnership agreement with the NSW Government and although it has now closed, it may still be possible to submit documentation for existing off-the-plan and renovation applications.

First Home – New Home

The First Home – New Home scheme offered exemptions and concessions on transfer duty. It was replaced by the First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme. If you bought your property between 1 January 2012 and 30 June 2017, you may still be able to apply via Revenue NSW or your solicitor or conveyancer.