At the forefront of helping people buy homes in Western Australia, we understand the financial challenges that come with purchasing a first home. Fortunately, buying your first home in WA there is some relief now available.
As of 21 March 2025, the WA Labor Government has rolled out new stamp duty exemptions and concessions designed to ease the pressure for first-time buyers and boost housing supply across the State.
More support when buying an established home.
If you're purchasing your first home in Perth or Peel, you’ll now pay no stamp duty on properties priced up to $500,000 - up from the previous $450,000 cap. That’s a saving of almost $18,000.
For properties priced between $500,000 and $700,000, a partial concession applies, reducing the amount of stamp duty payable depending on the value.
In regional WA, the exemption also applies up to $500,000, with concessions available all the way up to $750,000 - making it easier for first home buyers across the State to access a broader range of options.
Support for vacant land purchases.
For those planning to build, the stamp duty exemption on vacant land has increased from $300,000 to $350,000 across WA. This could save buyers up to $11,000.
A partial concession is also available for land valued between $350,000 and $450,000 - providing a more affordable path to building your first home.
Boost for off-the-plan purchases.
Significant savings are also available for those buying off-the-plan apartments or townhouses between 21 March 2025 and 30 June 2026.
If you purchase before construction starts, no stamp duty applies up to $750,000, with a 50% concession tapering to $850,000.
If the property is already under construction, you’ll receive a 75% concession up to $750,000 and 37.5% above that, helping more buyers access new, higher-density homes.
These discounts are now open to townhouses as well as apartments, providing more downsizer-friendly options and supporting the delivery of new homes.
What happens if you buy now?
Legislation to enact the changes is still to be introduced, but WA Finance Minister David Michael confirmed that all eligible buyers from 21 March onwards will be covered.
“Buyers that are eligible for the new thresholds who need to pay duty under the previous thresholds at settlement can apply for a refund when the system changes are implemented,” he said.
A pre-enactment determination will ensure the policy takes effect immediately, so there's no need to delay if you’re ready to buy now.
The recent REIWA March 2025 data highlights a continued upward trajectory in WA's property market, with notable increases across both metropolitan Perth and regional areas. This sustained increase in house prices means that many homebuyers, particularly first-home buyers, may only qualify for partial relief under government assistance schemes, such as stamp duty concessions or first-home buyer grants.
As prices push beyond eligibility thresholds, the level of assistance available may be reduced, leaving buyers to bridge a larger financial gap. Meaning the hunt remains competitive for new home buyers to find the right opportunity for their personal circumstances.
Your next step starts here.
At Realmark, we understand the significance of your first home - whether it's in a vibrant metro suburb, a regional growth corridor, or a coastal lifestyle destination.
These updated thresholds open the door to more possibilities, and our buyer agency services are here to help you take advantage of them.
We’ll connect you with opportunities that match your goals and ensure you’re making the most of what’s now available - whether it’s a home ready to move into or land you’re excited to build on.
Contact Realmark today to start your journey and unlock your first home advantage.
This article is intended as general information only. Please speak to your legal and financial advisor to confirm your eligibility and how stamp duty exemptions or concessions may apply to you.