Buying your first home just became easier for more Australians, thanks to changes to the federal government’s Help to Buy scheme.
 
From 1 July, 10,000 new places became available for the 2026–27 financial year.
 
At the same time, the scheme’s taxable income limits increased to $103,000 for single applicants and $165,000 for joint applicants and single parents, allowing more buyers to qualify.
Demand is strong
 
Help to Buy has attracted significant interest since launching in December 2025.
 
Between then and June 2026:
  • More than 7,200 applications were received.
  • The median deposit was $30,000.
  • 86% of applicants were first home buyers.
Why buyers are taking notice
 
Under Help to Buy, the government contributes towards the purchase price in exchange for an ownership share of up to 40%.
 
That means eligible buyers may need a smaller deposit and a smaller mortgage, making home ownership achievable sooner.
 
If you’re thinking about buying your first home, now could be the right time to see whether the expanded scheme could help you get there sooner.
 
Curious whether you qualify for Help to Buy?