Stamp Duty Exemption Victoria: How to Save Thousands When You Buy Property

When you buy property in Victoria, one of the largest upfront costs you’ll face is stamp duty also known as land transfer duty. This is a tax charged by the Victorian Government, calculated on the dutiable value of your property (the higher of the purchase price or market value). For many buyers, house stamp duty Victoria costs can run into tens of thousands of dollars.

The good news? Many buyers qualify for a stamp duty exemption in Victoria or a reduced rate through a concession. These savings can make a huge difference to your budget and, in some cases, remove the cost completely.

Understanding the rules, knowing when they apply, and getting the right professional help can be the difference between overpaying and keeping thousands in your pocket.

What Is a Stamp Duty Exemption?

A stamp duty exemption means you pay no duty at all. A concession means you pay a reduced amount. Both are designed to support specific buyer groups like stamp duty Victoria first home buyers, pensioners, or those buying off-the-plan and to make housing more affordable.

At Tahlia Hoegel Conveyancing, we help you work out exactly what you’re entitled to and make sure it’s applied correctly during settlement, so you never pay more than you should.

Who Is Eligible for Stamp Duty Exemption VIC?

The most common category is for first home buyers.

• If the dutiable value is $600,000 or less, you pay no stamp duty VIC.
• If it’s between $600,001 and $750,000, you may qualify for a concession on a sliding scale.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident aged 18+
• Never have owned property before (including with a partner)
• Live in the home as your principal place of residence for at least 12 months within the first year after settlement

If you’re buying your first home, see our full First Home Buyer Conveyancing service to learn how we can help you secure every available concession.

Are Pensioners Exempt from Stamp Duty in VIC?

Pensioners and concession card holders may receive a one-off exemption or concession on properties valued up to $750,000. If your property value is at the lower end, you could be exempt entirely; higher values within the threshold attract a partial concession.

This is a lifetime benefit, so choosing when to use it is critical. You must hold a valid concession card at settlement and the property must be your principal place of residence. If you’re also eligible for the first home buyer concession, you can only choose one so it’s important to compare which saves you more.

For personalised advice, get in touch with our licensed conveyancing team in Victoria and we’ll calculate the better option for you.

Other Common Stamp Duty Exemptions

Off-the-plan buyers often benefit from a reduced stamp duty on land value. In these cases, the duty is calculated on the land value at the date of the contract, rather than the finished property value. This can mean huge savings, especially in high-growth areas. These concessions are currently extended until October 2026. 

See our Off-the-Plan Conveyancing guide for more detail.

Other exemptions may apply for:

• Charities and not-for-profits
• Primary producers and young farmers
• Transfers related to deceased estates
• Certain regional concessions

Victoria Land Tax vs Stamp Duty

It’s important to understand that Victoria land tax is separate from stamp duty VIC. Stamp duty is a one-off payment you make when purchasing property, while land tax Victoria is an annual tax on the total value of land you own, excluding your principal place of residence.

If you own multiple properties such as an investment home and your PPR you may have to pay both stamp duty on houses at purchase and Victoria land tax every year. At Tahlia Hoegel Conveyancing, we can guide you on both so you’re never caught off guard.

Example: How Much Can You Save?

Let’s say you’re buying your first home for $580,000.

• Without any concession, you’d pay around $30,070 in duty.
• With a first home buyer exemption, your Victoria stamp duty exemption means you could pay $0.

That’s over $30,000 in instant savings money that could go straight towards your mortgage or renovations.

Disclaimer: This example is for general information purposes only and is based on current Victorian stamp duty rates at the time of writing. Actual savings will depend on your individual circumstances, eligibility, and the specific details of your property purchase. You should confirm the exact amount payable using the SRO Victoria Stamp Duty Calculator or by speaking directly with our conveyancing team.

Who Is Exempt from Paying Stamp Duty in Victoria?

You may be exempt if:

• You’re a first home buyer purchasing up to $600,000
• You’re buying a PPR up to $550,000 (non-FHB)
• You’re a pensioner buying up to $750,000 and meet all criteria
• You’re buying off-the-plan with reduced dutiable value
• You qualify under specific charitable, agricultural, or estate-related exemptions

FAQs – Stamp Duty Exemption Victoria

Your Next Step

The difference between paying full Victoria stamp duty on houses and securing a Vic stamp duty exemption can be life-changing. The rules are complex, and mistakes can cost you tens of thousands.

Our team at Tahlia Hoegel Conveyancing knows the system inside out.

We’ll check your eligibility to work out your exact savings, and make sure your exemption is applied correctly no missed opportunities, no costly oversights.

Get in touch with us today on or enquire online to see exactly how much you could save with a stamp duty exemption Victoria buyers can rely on.