Top call centre questions

What duty rate will I pay on vacant land?

Unless you are building your first home on the vacant land, you will pay the full transfer duty rate. See current duty rates for more information.

Why should I ask for a land tax clearance certificate before I buy property?

A land tax clearance certificate shows whether any land tax is owing in the name of the seller. If you do not obtain a land tax clearance certificate, and land tax is owing, you (as the buyer) will be liable to pay the land tax, even if the seller incurred the debt.

Do I have to pay land tax?

You may need to pay land tax if you (as an individual) own $600,000 or more of freehold land.

See thresholds for more information.

Are there any exemptions for land tax?

You may be able to claim an exemption if you use the land as your home, or for primary production or charitable purposes. See exemptions for more information.

Can I still claim the first home owner grant if I own an investment home?

If you held an interest in residential property before 1 July 2000, regardless of how the property was used, you are not eligible for the grant.

You may be eligible for the first home owner grant if you satisfy the following criteria:

• you held or currently hold an interest in residential property after 1 July 2000
• the property was or is used solely for investment purposes
• you can provide evidence that you have not lived in the investment property. This evidence may include:
  • tenancy/lease agreements
  • current electricity/phone accounts
  • electoral roll enrolment details
  • tax return details.

We cannot make a determination without a first home owner grant application and all relevant supporting documentation.

See eligibility requirements for more information.