The First Home Super Saver (FHSS) scheme and the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) are both designed to help Australians buy their first home — but they work very differently. Here’s how to understand each and how they can work together.
At a Glance
| Feature | FHSS | FHOG |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A savings strategy using your super | A one-off government cash grant |
| Who administers it | Australian Taxation Office (federal) | State/territory revenue offices |
| How much | Up to $50,000 per person | $10,000–$30,000 depending on state |
| When you receive it | At purchase settlement | At settlement (established) or first drawdown (new builds) |
| Property type | Any residential property | New builds or substantially renovated homes (most states) |
| Linked to savings/contributions | Yes — must contribute voluntarily | No — one-off grant, no savings required |
| Income test | None | None |
| Price cap | None | Varies by state (typically $600,000–$750,000) |
| Can be combined | Yes — both can apply to the same purchase | Yes — can be combined with FHSS |
How the FHSS Works (Brief)
The FHSS allows you to make voluntary super contributions (up to $15,000/year, $50,000 total) and later withdraw them with associated earnings for a first home deposit. The tax advantage of the super system means you save more than you would in a bank account.
See FHSS Eligibility and FHSS Contribution Strategy for details.
How the FHOG Works (Brief)
The First Home Owner Grant is a one-off cash payment made by state and territory governments to eligible first home buyers purchasing a new home or substantially renovated home. Grant amounts vary by state:
| State/Territory | FHOG amount (approximate, check current rates) |
|---|---|
| NSW | $10,000 (new homes only) |
| VIC | $10,000 (regional VIC: $20,000) |
| QLD | $30,000 (FY2024–25, for new builds) |
| WA | $10,000 |
| SA | $15,000 |
| TAS | $30,000 |
| ACT | Grant replaced by other first home buyer assistance |
| NT | $10,000 |
Note: FHOG amounts and conditions change — verify with your state revenue office before applying.
Key Differences
Purpose:
- FHSS: Helps you save more efficiently — the benefit comes from tax savings over time
- FHOG: Provides a lump sum grant at purchase — no prior saving required
Eligibility:
- Both require you to be a first home buyer who has never owned Australian property
- FHSS is available for established and new properties; the FHOG is generally limited to new builds (in most states)
Timing:
- FHSS: You must plan ahead and contribute for at least 1 financial year before accessing
- FHOG: Applied for at settlement — no prior planning required (other than not having owned property)
Can You Use Both?
Yes — you can combine FHSS and FHOG for the same purchase, provided you meet both schemes’ eligibility requirements. Using both together potentially provides:
- FHSS: Up to $50,000 (per person, from voluntary contributions + earnings)
- FHOG: $10,000–$30,000 (one-off grant)
- Combined for a couple: Up to $130,000 in first home assistance (before any stamp duty concessions)
Stamp Duty Concessions (Separate Again)
In addition to FHSS and FHOG, most states offer stamp duty concessions or exemptions for first home buyers. These are entirely separate schemes and can be stacked with both FHSS and FHOG.
For more: FHSS Eligibility, FHSS How to Apply, FHSS vs Help to Buy, FHSS FAQ. For advice tailored to your situation, speak with a licensed financial adviser via MoneySmart.