Question 1

What is stamp duty?

Accepted Answer

Stamp duty (also called transfer duty or conveyance duty) is a state government tax paid when you purchase property in Australia. Each state and territory sets its own rates and rules, which is why the amount varies significantly depending on where you buy.

Question 2

How is stamp duty calculated?

Accepted Answer

Stamp duty is calculated on a sliding scale based on the property's purchase price or market value (whichever is higher). Each state has different brackets with increasing rates — similar to income tax brackets. The duty is calculated on the total dutiable value, not just the amount in each bracket.

Question 3

Do first home buyers pay stamp duty?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the state and property value. Most states offer first home buyer exemptions or concessions that can significantly reduce or eliminate stamp duty. For example, NSW offers a full exemption for properties up to $800,000, while TAS exempts properties up to $750,000. Some states like SA only offer relief on new homes.

Question 4

What is the foreign buyer surcharge?

Accepted Answer

Foreign buyers pay an additional surcharge on top of standard stamp duty in most states. Rates range from 7% (WA, SA) to 9% (NSW). The ACT and NT do not charge a stamp duty foreign surcharge. The surcharge is always calculated on the full property value, not the net duty after concessions.

Question 5

Which state has the lowest stamp duty?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the property value and your circumstances. For owner-occupiers, the ACT generally has the lowest rates due to its ongoing stamp duty reform. Queensland and the ACT offer generous home concession rates. For first home buyers, states like TAS and QLD can result in zero duty for many price points.

Question 6

Can you add stamp duty to your mortgage?

Accepted Answer

Some lenders allow you to capitalise stamp duty into your home loan, but this means you'll pay interest on the stamp duty amount over the life of the loan. This can significantly increase your total borrowing costs. It's generally better to pay stamp duty upfront if you can.

Question 7

When do you pay stamp duty?

Accepted Answer

Stamp duty is typically paid at settlement in most states. In NSW, it's due within 3 months of the contract date. In the ACT, it's due within 14 days of title registration (after settlement). Your conveyancer or solicitor usually handles the payment process.

Question 8

Is stamp duty the same as transfer duty?

Accepted Answer

Yes — 'stamp duty' and 'transfer duty' refer to the same tax. Different states use different terms: NSW and QLD call it 'transfer duty', VIC calls it 'land transfer duty', SA still uses 'stamp duty', and the ACT calls it 'conveyance duty'. The calculation works the same way regardless of the name.

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