For all applicants for FHOG, your application must relate to a new home. This means, a home that has not previously been used or sold as a principal residence.
To qualify for the higher, additional FHOG payments, the following building requirements must also be satisfied. These criteria do not apply for contracts entered on or after 1 July 2024.
Between 1 July 2016 and 30 June 2024 (inclusive) you must have:
commenced laying the foundations for your home as an owner builder; or
entered into a contract to buy an "off the plan" or new dwelling (being a dwelling that has not previously been occupied or sold as a place of residence).
The building must be completed within 24 months of:
- entering into the contract to build (comprehensive building contract); or
- laying the foundations for an owner builder.
The building is classified as complete at the issue date of the occupancy certificate.
Movable buildings
If a moveable building (a building that is fixed to land, not a caravan or mobile home) is being purchased, the applicant is classified as an owner builder.
- the commencement date is taken to be the date of the contract to purchase the new moveable building; and
- the building must be new (that is, a building that has not previously been used as a place of residence).