First home buyers in Victoria pay zero land transfer duty up to $600,000. A tapered concession runs to $750,000, then standard duty applies. Foreign purchasers add an 8% surcharge. Here’s exactly how it works, with a worked example and citations to State Revenue Office Victoria.
First home buyers in Victoria pay no land transfer duty on principal places of residence up to $600,000, with a tapered concession between $600,000 and $750,000 — above that, full duty applies. The foreign purchaser additional duty is 8% on top of standard duty (as at April 2026). For a $750,000 Melbourne home, a non-first-home buyer pays roughly $40,000 in standard land transfer duty. Always verify with the SRO Victoria calculator.
Land transfer duty rates, thresholds and surcharges are set by Victorian state budget decisions and can move between annual budgets. The figures above reflect SRO Victoria’s position as at April 2026. Before committing to a purchase, verify current rates at SRO Victoria or run the official calculator. This guide is general information, not financial or legal advice.
No, first home buyers in Victoria pay no land transfer duty on principal places of residence up to $600,000. A tapered concession applies between $600,000 and $750,000, and full duty applies above $750,000. You must occupy the property as your principal residence for 12 continuous months starting within 12 months of settlement. Verify at SRO Victoria.
Foreign purchasers pay an additional 8% on top of standard land transfer duty (as at April 2026). This applies to non-Australian citizens and non-permanent residents buying residential property. Paid at the same time as standard duty. Verify at SRO Victoria.
Land transfer duty must be paid within 30 days of settlement. Your conveyancer or solicitor lodges via Duties Online as part of settlement. Late payment attracts interest at SRO’s prescribed rate.
No. The FHB exemption and concession only apply when the property is your principal place of residence. You must move in within 12 months of settlement and live there continuously for at least 12 months.
Using SRO Victoria’s graduated brackets, a non-first-home buyer pays approximately $40,000 on a $750,000 purchase. A first home buyer at $750,000 sits at the top of the tapered concession band — close to full duty. Run your exact scenario through the SRO Victoria calculator.
A vetted home loan specialist will calculate your exact duty, FHB eligibility, total upfront costs and borrowing capacity — free to you, no cost and no obligation.
Get Matched With A Specialist →