First Home Buyers Grant NT (2025): Secure $10k & Stamp Duty Relief in the Northern Territory

Mathew Heywood

23 Jul 2025 — 3 min read

Introduction

Are you interested in buying your first home in the Northern Territory? Let me show how you can claim the $10,000 First Home Owner Grant (FHOG), generous stamp duty relief and probably the fastest approval processing among all the states.

I once helped a mate out in Darwin claim his government grants, he went into the process not expecting much but when it was all said and done he saved tens of thousands as well the process ended up being much quicker than he thought.

In this guide, I will walk you through everything about the First Home Owner Grant in NT, step-by-step: who qualifies, how to apply, and how you can combine other schemes to maximise all your benefits in 2025.

What is the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) in the NT?

$10,000 tax-free grant for first home buyers.
Applies to new or substantially renovated properties.
No official price cap as long as the property is reasonably valued.
This property must be your principal residence.
Must live in the home for at least 6 months within 12 months of settlement.
Grant is a lump-sum amount and non-repayable.

Who is Eligible for the Northern Territory FHOG?

Must be a first-time home buyer and never owned a home in Australia.
At least one of the applicants must be 18 years of age.
Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
Only homes that are new or substantially renovated qualify. (Never lived in)
Owner-occupancy is required.
Older properties or investment properties will not qualify.

Stamp Duty Relief & Concessions in the NT

Homes under $700,000 receive a stamp duty exemption. (Single home)
A 50% concession is granted for properties valued at $700,001 - $1.5 million.
No stamp duty applies for any vacant land under $300,000
These concessions apply to all types of buyers, only FHOG applies to first homes only.
Large savings available, especially for new builds under the threshold.

What Types of Property Qualify in the Northern Territory

Brand-new / Newly built homes.
Substantially renovated homes with a certification of renovation included.
Off-the-plan purchases.
Small-scale house-and-land packages.
No price cap for the grant - but a value cap for full stamp duty.

How to Apply for FHOG in Northern Territory

The best way to apply is through a Mortgage Broker or Bank.
Alternatively you can apply directly to the NT Department of Treasury and Finance.
Must apply within 12 months of settlement or completion.
Grant is paid upon settlement or handover.

Documents Required

ID and proof of residency.
New build or a renovation contract.
Renovation Certificate (if applicable)
Owner-occupancy declaration.

Common Mistakes Made by First Homebuyers in NT

Assuming any renovation qualifies - only certified substantial ones do.
Purchasing existing or non renovated homes.
Missing the 6-month on-site residency requirement.
Waiting too long to apply and missing deadlines, must be submitted within 12 months.
Not properly utilizing stamp duty relief and combining it with other schemes.

Major Tips to Maximise your Benefits in NT

Bundle FHOG with the First Home Guarantee to avoid needing LMI.
Consider renovating an older home substantially to save.
Always work with a trusted broker for the easiest way to navigate grants.
Make sure you plan for 6-month owner-occupancy and keep records.

Example : How Susan Purchased a Renovated First Home in Darwin

Susan, a first-home buyer, bought a substantially renovated home in Darwin for $520,000

Here’s a breakdown:

She qualified for the $10,000 FHOG by substantially renovating.
Paid no stamp duty because the property was under $700,000.
Used only a 5% deposit under the First Home Guarantee / avoided LMI.
Applied for the grants through her broker prior to settlement.
Moved in right away and kept the necessary documents to show her 6-month residency as required by the grant.

By combining programs like FHOG, stamp duty exemption and other federal schemes. Susan’s total upfront savings topped $25,000 which tremendously helped her with her moving expenses and reducing her loan size.

Should You Use the NT First Home Owner Grant

Of course - if you’re buying or renovating to occupy your first home in NT, it’s hard to overlook a $10,000 FHOG, stamp duty relief and other schemes that can help you save tens of thousands upfront, paired with other benefits like a lower deposit.

You just want to make sure you meet all criteria as well as are mindful of the deadlines. If you want more guides like this or free access to our Grant & Stamp duty calculator, visit our website www.homebuyerhelp.com.au to get everything you need to buy a home with confidence for absolutely free, no buyers agent required.