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Australian Stamp Duty Guide

Comprehensive stamp duty information for all Australian states and territories. Select your state below to view specific rates, concessions, and eligibility requirements.

NSW Transfer Duty Calculation Guide

Basic Calculation Framework

Transfer duty (commonly known as stamp duty) in NSW is calculated based on either the property's sale price or its current market value, whichever is higher.

  • Payment is required within 3 months of signing the contract for sale, or by settlement date if settlement occurs earlier
  • Stamp duty is always paid by the buyer, not the seller
  • Off-the-plan purchases may allow deferral of stamp duty payment for up to 12 months if intended as principal residence

Standard Transfer Duty Rates (from 1 July 2024)

Property ValueTransfer Duty Rate
$0 to $17,000$1.25 for every $100 (minimum $20)
$17,000 to $36,000$212 plus $1.50 for every $100 over $17,000
$36,000 to $97,000$497 plus $1.75 for every $100 over $36,000
$97,000 to $364,000$1,564 plus $3.50 for every $100 over $97,000
$364,000 to $1,212,000$10,909 plus $4.50 for every $100 over $364,000
Over $1,212,000$49,069 plus $5.50 for every $100 over $1,212,000

Premium Transfer Duty Rates

Properties over $3 million are subject to premium transfer duty rates:

  • Over $3,636,000 (from 1 July 2024): $182,389 plus $7.00 for every $100 over $3,636,000
  • For large properties over two hectares, the premium rate only applies to the first two hectares as a proportion of the total land area

First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme (FHBAS)

Eligible first home buyers can receive significant stamp duty relief:

Full Exemption

  • • Properties up to $800,000
  • • Vacant land up to $350,000

Concessional Rates

  • • Properties $800,000 - $1,000,000
  • • Vacant land $350,000 - $450,000

Eligibility requirements: Must be buying first home in Australia, move into property within 12 months of settlement, and live there for at least 12 continuous months.

Foreign Purchaser Surcharge

Foreign property buyers must pay an additional surcharge purchaser duty of 8% of the property value. This surcharge is paid in addition to standard transfer duty.

Exemptions and Concessions

Additional exemptions may apply in certain circumstances:

  • Spouse/de facto transfers: Transfers between married couples or de facto partners for principal place of residence
  • Deceased estate transfers: Property transfers under a will or intestacy rules
  • Family transfers: Certain transfers between family members may qualify for concessions

Additional Costs and Considerations

Other Government Fees

  • Transfer (lodgement) fees: typically $150-$500
  • Mortgage registration fees: approximately $150

Professional Services

  • Conveyancer/solicitor fees: typically $1,200-$2,500
  • Building and pest inspections: $300-$800
  • Property valuation fees: $300-$800

Important Notes

  • Related parties or partial transfers require professional property valuation
  • Threshold amounts are adjusted annually in line with Sydney's Consumer Price Index and rounded to the nearest dollar
  • Solicitors or conveyancers typically handle the payment process and lodgement on behalf of buyers
  • The previous "annual property tax" option for first home buyers has been phased out for new purchases (July 2023)

References:

Important Disclaimer

  • This information is provided for general guidance purposes only
  • Stamp duty rates and regulations change frequently - always verify current rates with official sources
  • Individual circumstances may significantly affect calculations and eligibility for concessions
  • Calculations may be complex and individual factors may affect the final amount payable
  • Always consult with qualified professionals such as solicitors, conveyancers, or financial advisers for advice specific to your situation
  • Use official government calculators for precise duty estimates