VIC Government slashes stamp duty for off-the-plan property buyers - savings available immediately, Oct 2024

In a significant policy move aimed at stimulating the property market, the Victorian government has announced a major reduction in stamp duty for off-the-plan apartments, units, and townhouses.

Effective from October 21, 2024, the expanded concessions will apply to all eligible off-the-plan purchases and will remain in place for one year.

This initiative, designed to address the state’s housing affordability crisis, opens a window of opportunity for prospective buyers, particularly investors and owner-occupiers, to secure substantial stamp duty savings.

Key Changes to Stamp Duty Concessions

Previously, stamp duty on off-the-plan purchases was calculated based on the total price of the property, including the construction value. Under the new scheme, stamp duty will be calculated solely on the land value before construction begins. This shift in policy significantly reduces the financial burden for buyers, particularly in metropolitan areas where property prices continue to rise.

For example, a Victorian purchasing an off-the-plan apartment valued at $620,000, with the land component valued at $77,500, will now pay just $4,000 in stamp duty—down from $32,000. This $28,000 saving represents a significant reduction in upfront costs for property buyers, potentially unlocking the market for a wider demographic.

The changes also eliminate the previous cap on concessions, expanding eligibility beyond first-home buyers to include any purchaser of off-the-plan apartments, units, or townhouses within a strata subdivision.

Who Benefits from the Scheme

The new stamp duty concessions are aimed at boosting sales in Victoria’s off-the-plan sector, which has been slowing due to high taxes and market uncertainty. The scheme covers properties that are part of a strata subdivision. However, it excludes house and land packages or dwellings not part of a strata subdivision.

Existing concessions for first home buyers remain unchanged. Homes valued up to $600,000 will continue to benefit from full stamp duty exemptions, and concessions apply to properties valued up to $750,000.

A Limited-Time Opportunity for Buyers

The stamp duty concession is a time-sensitive initiative, with the expanded benefits available only until October 21, 2025. Buyers who are considering entering the market are urged to act promptly to take advantage of the scheme, as the concession will revert to its previous structure after this period.

For developments currently under construction, buyers are also eligible for reduced stamp duty, although the exact savings will depend on how much of the construction has been completed at the time of purchase.

Impact on the Market

The Victorian property industry has long advocated for a reduction in stamp duty, arguing that the high upfront cost has acted as a deterrent for both buyers and developers. By lowering these barriers, the government aims to revitalise the market, particularly in Melbourne, where apartment supply has struggled to keep pace with demand.

The concessions are expected to have a positive ripple effect on the rental market as well, as more off-the-plan properties come online. Developers will benefit from increased pre-sale success, helping them to meet financing requirements and commence construction sooner.

What Buyers Need to Know

For those interested in purchasing an off-the-plan property, the expanded stamp duty concessions represent a rare financial advantage. The Victorian government's removal of the concession cap makes this offer more widely available than previous schemes, opening the door for both investors and owner-occupiers to secure valuable savings.

Urban.com.au will continue to provide updates on off-the-plan developments and related policy changes. Buyers interested in learning more about the stamp duty reduction can explore our latest listings or contact us for further insights into how this change could benefit them.

Summary of Eligibility:

• Applies to off-the-plan apartments, units, and townhouses within a strata subdivision.
• Stamp duty calculated based on land value, not total property price.
• Available for one year, ending October 21, 2025.
• No cap on eligibility; open to all buyers, not just first-home purchasers.
• With the Victorian government’s stamp duty concession, now is an ideal time for property buyers to enter the market while this limited offer remains available.