Plain-English articles to help you navigate schemes, grants, and the numbers behind buying your first home in Australia.
News and trends
ABS April 2026 data shows dwelling approvals fell 3.4% but remain 10% above last year. With Australia still 220,000 homes short of its 1.2 million target, the supply pipeline signals sustained price pressure ahead.
Market Updates
After two RBA rises in early 2026, variable rates sit near 6.95% and serviceability near 9.95%. See what that may mean for repayments and borrowing power.
Market Updates
NAB has dropped its August 2026 hike forecast and now tips a cut, joining CBA and ANZ. What the shift could mean for borrowing power and buyer timing.
Schemes & Grants
The ACT 2026-27 Budget confirms zero stamp duty for every Canberra first home buyer from July 1, with no price cap or income test. What it means.
Market Updates
Canstar finds couples have lost just over $71,000 in borrowing capacity since January while Sydney prices dropped about $30,000. What the gap means.
Market Updates
CBA, ANZ, NAB and Westpac all now forecast the RBA holds the cash rate at 4.35% on June 16. See what a pause could mean for borrowing capacity.
Market Updates
May 2026 data shows Sydney and Melbourne values 2-3% below their November highs as listings rise. See what the improving conditions could mean for buyers.
Schemes & Grants
Queensland's $30,000 First Home Owner Grant reverts to $15,000 on 1 July 2026, set by your contract date not settlement. See the deadline math.
Schemes & Grants
Tasmania joins the federal Help to Buy scheme on June 9, 2026, completing the rollout. TAS also faces a June 30 cut to its $30,000 grant and stamp duty.
Market Updates
South Australia announces the first suburb built only for first home buyers - 400 Adelaide homes from about $185,000 for land, with zero stamp duty.
Schemes & Grants
Tasmania's full first-home stamp duty exemption ends 30 June 2026 - about $22,500 at $600k, up to $28,900 at the $750k cap. See the deadline math.
Schemes & Grants
From October 2025 the federal 5% Deposit Scheme dropped all income caps and place limits. If you once ruled yourself out, here is what to recheck.